Susie Dent

Susie Dent, a beloved lexicographer and etymologist known from Channel 4's Countdown, shares her passion for the English language and its quirks. She discusses her debut crime novel, 'Guilt by Definition,' which cleverly intertwines her love for words and a mysterious disappearance. Dent humorously delves into unique vocabulary and the historical journey of dictionary-making, revealing how everyday people shaped the Oxford English Dictionary. The conversation beautifully highlights language’s evolution and its profound connections to storytelling and crime.

This week, Theo Gehrin, a producer for TED Radio Hour, shares his insights on the unusual surge of teen comments on old podcast episodes, hinting at a new trend in using comment sections as chat rooms. Meanwhile, lexicographer Susie Dent dives into the intriguing history of the phrase 'steal your thunder,' tracing it back to a 1709 incident involving playwright John Dennis, whose thunder machine inspired the saying. Their discussions reveal surprising connections between modern communication and historical language.

Countdown star Susie Dent shares her top 'Untranslatables' - words that can't be translated into English. From Swedish, she introduces a word for the friend that is always late despite saying they'll be on time. Explore untranslatable words from different countries, including German, Danish, and Dutch.

Susie Dent, a renowned lexicographer and etymologist from Channel 4’s Countdown, dives into the charm of the English language. She shares captivating insights into its evolution, the emergence of slang, and how emojis shape modern communication. The discussion touches on the complexities of language in mystery writing and hilariously misinterpreted emojis. Dent also highlights the beauty of profanity, its historical significance, and the creative richness it brings to the language, all while connecting these themes to her debut novel.

Theo Geeran, a producer from TED Radio Hour, discusses how teenagers are transforming old Spotify podcast comments into vibrant secret social spaces. Meanwhile, lexicographer Susie Dent uncovers the intriguing origin of the phrase 'steal your thunder,' tracing it back to the playwright John Dennis and his theatrical invention from 1709. From clever tricks to finish projects to the unconventional use of podcast comments, this conversation will keep you entertained and informed!