Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris

Discover the fascinating influence of French on English! Rob and Jess break down how nearly 30% of English words come from French, especially post-Norman Conquest. They delve into why meats bear French names and explore intriguing borrowed terms like 'chauffeur' and 'panache.' The evolution of words, from 'boudoir' to modern usage, adds a captivating twist. Language reflects social dynamics, with discussions on terms related to conflict and society revealing the historical tapestry woven between these two languages.

Delve into the fascinating history of time-related terms and their origins, from the meaning of "seconds" to the literal definition of a "clock." Discover how the French decimal calendar reshaped timekeeping and explore the intriguing etymology behind words like "fortnight" and "calendar." The discussion also reveals how diverse cultures interpret time, including the unique phenomena of 'Filipino time.' With refreshing insights, the podcast uncovers how celestial movements have shaped our understanding of months and seasons.

Rob and Jess dive into the fascinating world of film and television terms. Discover why 'films' is the preferred term in Britain and the mystery behind the pseudonym 'Alan Smithee.' They also unveil quirky industry jargon like 'gaffer' and 'dolly,' and share hilarious insights from behind the scenes. Listen in to explore the playful evolution of language in popular culture, from 'yada yada yada' to the infamous 'winningest.' This lively discussion is a treat for movie buffs and word lovers alike!

Dive into the captivating world of insects as playful banter unveils the meaning behind words like 'bug' and 'beetle.' Discover why spiders spin 'cobwebs' and whether butterflies were ever called 'flutterbys.' Enjoy humorous stories about wasps crashing a football game, and explore the delightful etymology of intriguing insects. From the love for beneficial critters like spiders to the quirky names of locusts and cicadas, this lively conversation connects language and nature in ways you'll find utterly fascinating!

Dive into the fascinating world of religious words and their history! Discover what treasures were hidden in the first chapel and learn about the original behemoth’s identity. Explore the captivating origins of terms like 'conclave' and how religious titles have evolved over time. Uncover the transition of words such as 'regular' and 'irregular,' and how they reflect cultural changes. Plus, delve into the concept of 'shibboleth' and its role in defining group identity. It's a witty and enlightening journey through language and faith!

Discover why 'pants' mean different things across the pond and which city inspired the name for jeans. Uncover the playful history of the flapper girl and dive into the intriguing origins of nylon, linking New York and London. Explore the evolution of legwear terminology and the societal impacts behind iconic garments like cardigans and Wellington boots. Learn how words like 'ruff' and 'bikini' have transformed through time, revealing the ever-changing landscape of fashion language.

Discover the surprising differences in transportation language between British and American English. Unravel the quirky etymology behind words like 'passenger' and 'omnibus', which even has roots in a hat shop! Explore the fascinating distinctions in train terminology and hear some amusing anecdotes from railway enthusiasts. Learn about the slang-rich world of trucking and the cultural significance of CB radios. This journey is packed with fun facts and a fresh perspective on the words that move us.

Dive into the captivating world of idiom origins! Discover why we say 'balls to the wall' and uncover the mystery behind 'white elephants.' Learn about the historical roots of 'break the ice' and how aviation influenced modern language. The madness behind expressions like 'mad as a hatter' gets explored with humor and insight. Plus, delve into the significance of phrases like 'pulling oneself up by one's bootstraps' and the cultural stories behind 'the whole nine yards.' Language has never been this fun!

Dive into the playful clash of British and American English! The hosts explore quirky slang differences, from 'cop' to 'bobby,' revealing cultural nuances behind the terms. Discover the varied words for everyday items, like 'chemist' vs. 'pharmacy,' and enjoy amusing anecdotes about driving experiences and urban layouts. The evolution of language takes center stage, with hilarious stories about bidets and the origins of 'Scotch Tape.' Tune in for a lively discussion on how language reflects culture across the pond!

Discover the fascinating world of Shakespeare as transatlantic word nerds delve into the Bard's linguistic legacy. Did he really invent 1,700 words? Explore the clever Shakespearean insults that still resonate today. Investigate the controversies surrounding his authorship and the collaborative nature of theater during his time. Plus, enjoy whimsical discussions on unique vocabulary that showcases his enduring impact on language and culture. It's a lively mix of history, humor, and heart!