Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris

Discover the fascinating origins of mathematical terms and how they vary across cultures. Learn about the surprising roots of the word 'hundred' and its historical representation as 120. Delve into the transformative role of zero and its impact on mathematics through the ages. Unravel the etymology behind counting systems and numbered expressions in different languages. There’s also a light-hearted segment where the hosts playfully brainstorm branding ideas while exploring the quirks of language in math.

Dive into the criminal underbelly of language as Rob and Jess unravel the origins of terms like 'blackmail' and 'burglary.' Discover the stark differences between 'robbery' and 'theft.' Explore how Victorian prison slang influences our vocabulary today. Unpack the etymology of words related to deception, such as 'sabotage' and 'arson.' Finally, learn about the fascinating journey of the term 'scapegoat' and its cultural implications. A richly entertaining dive into the dark side of words awaits!

Explore the curious origins of common idioms that pepper our everyday speech. Discover who really 'painted the town red' and the bizarre history behind 'to screw the pooch.' Tune in to learn how to 'steal someone's thunder' became a phrase that captures the essence of rivalry. Delve into delightful tales of idioms related to cats and the cultural significance of expressions tied to Sundays. This playful journey shines a light on language and the captivating stories that shape our expressions.

Discover the intriguing origins of holiday terms like Santa Claus and the fascinating evolution of 'nice' and 'naughty.' Delve into the etymology of reindeer names and the debate over a famous Christmas poem’s authorship. Learn about mistletoe's significance and the linguistic history behind Christmas carols. Explore how the meanings of 'merry' and Christmas traditions have transformed over time. Each topic unravels the linguistic magic behind our most beloved festive customs!

Dive into the quirky origins of job titles and discover what carpenters once crafted and which animal butchers originally worked with. Learn about the surprising role of 'gong farmers' and the intriguing function of 'sin eaters' in history. Unpack the etymology behind professions like cobblers, milliners, and more, while enjoying insights into how language shapes our understanding of work. With a humorous twist, this exploration highlights the oddities of obsolete jobs and their modern counterparts.

Dive into the quirky world of punctuation and discover which marks came first. Uncover the playful art of punctuating sarcasm and the history behind the question mark's unique shape. Learn about the evolution of apostrophes, the nuances of the Oxford comma, and the whimsical 'Grawlix' used in comics. Explore the fascinating significance of the word 'tittle,' and how punctuation symbols have transformed communication through ages. Each segment reveals the hidden charm and complexity of our writing conventions.

Dive into the tangled world of corporate jargon and legalese, from the origins of the term 'jargon' to the absurdity of modern job titles. Discover the playful nature of terms like 'swag' at conferences and the historical roots of legal phrases such as 'habeas corpus.' The discussion humorously critiques the stale language of AI-generated content and tackle buzzwords that hinder real communication in the workplace. Join in for a light-hearted exploration of how jargon can be both charming and unnecessarily complex!

Uncover the whimsical history behind our favorite games! Explore how 'chess' and 'poker' earned their names, and discover the true meaning of a 'pawn.' Ever wanted to know how Jenga got its title? Dive into the art of Scrabble and learn about high-scoring words, while also teasing out the origins of popular childhood games. Finally, unravel the significance of the 'Jack' in playing cards. Get ready for a fun-filled journey through the etymology of entertainment!

Get ready for a spirited conversation on the origins of your favorite drinks! Discover where 'beer' comes from and the amusing stories behind iconic cocktails like the Negroni. Ever wondered how many ways Brits describe being drunk? You'll be surprised! Plus, explore the fascinating roots of words like 'alcohol' and 'wormwood', blending history with humor. This lively discussion reveals how language and drinking culture intertwine, making for a fun and educational sip through etymology.

Dive into the enchanting world of woodland words as the hosts explore the surprising origins behind tree names and their cultural significance. Discover which trees inspired book titles and learn what it truly means to be 'badgered.' Enjoy a humorous take on the etymology of 'raspberry' and a delightful discussion about hedgehogs and their quirky history. The conversation also touches on mushroom foraging and the fascinating connections between language and nature, making it a whimsical journey through words and the wild.