

Vocabulary Mnemonics
Matt & Dr. Mom
From legerdemain to scrupulousness, from tatterdemalion to kempt, we have the memory tools to help you remember GRE vocabulary, Latin and Greek phrases, medical terms and more -- forever.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 2, 2025 • 23min
Episode 77: Kompromat, deign, merism, and more!
Dive into the intriguing world of 'kompromat' and its historical significance, particularly during the Cold War. Explore the playful nuances of words like 'salutatorian' and 'merism' with humor and insight. Expand your vocabulary through relatable examples of 'ruction' and 'feckless.' Enjoy light-hearted banter while contrasting playful dialogue with the weight of a 'glower.' The discussion wraps up with whimsical mnemonics that add a touch of cynicism to everyday office dynamics.

7 snips
Jul 26, 2025 • 25min
Episode 76: Neophyte, sublebrity, Quaker Gun, and more
Dive into the intriguing world of vocabulary with discussions on terms like 'neophyte,' highlighting its meaning as a newcomer in skills. Explore the rise of 'sublebrity' and its impact on popular culture, alongside engaging anecdotes about language. Discover fascinating words like 'spoliate' and 'adjure,' emphasizing their significance and use in everyday conversation. Don't miss the connections between vocabulary and historical events, such as the 'quaker gun,' making learning both enjoyable and memorable.

6 snips
Jul 19, 2025 • 21min
Episode 75: Heuristic, Gelid, Billet doux, and more
Discover the charm of intriguing words like 'billet doux' and 'gelid,' as humor and mnemonic aids make vocabulary fun! Unravel the confusion behind 'adle-pated' while exploring its quirky cultural references. Learn about 'folly' through relatable imagery of youthful mischief and comfort food. Delve into Alaska's acquisition as a historical folly, and uncover the role of mental shortcuts in decision-making. The hosts guide you through the nuances of terms like 'diverse' and 'feral,' making vocabulary both engaging and memorable!

6 snips
Jul 12, 2025 • 22min
Episode 74: Vexillology, egress, Hanlon’s Razor, and more
Discover the fascinating world of vexillology, the art of studying flags, and its cultural significance. Dive into playful mnemonics that make learning words like 'egress' and 'brackish' both fun and memorable. Explore the implications of the word 'wend' alongside Hanlon's Razor, which suggests we should attribute incompetence rather than malice to others' actions. Each topic is brought to life with engaging anecdotes and vivid imagery, making vocabulary retention an entertaining adventure!

Jul 5, 2025 • 29min
Episode 73: Elucubrate, trope, eclaircissement, and more
Join a playful exploration of unique words like 'transpontine' and 'elucubrate,' where mnemonics make language stick! Delve into the complexities of 'fratricide' through historical and literary lenses. Discover the essential role of doulas in childbirth, blending support and history. Get creative with 'armalu' and the art of storytelling tropes, highlighting the fine line between innovation and cliché. The conversation is rich with humor and insightful connections between language and life!

Jun 28, 2025 • 24min
Episode 72: Elegiac, thermotropism, euphonious, and more
Uncover the intriguing dynamics of thermotropism, as plants reach for warmth—a behavior mirrored in human tendencies. Delve into the nuances of communication, tackling topics like 'boomer asking' and Occam's Razor to clarify focus in conversations. Explore the contrast between euphonious sounds and elegiac expressions, highlighting their literary connections. Plus, enrich your vocabulary with memorable definitions and real-life applications of words like 'star-crossed' and 'concoct.' This journey through language ignites curiosity and appreciation for words!

Jun 21, 2025 • 27min
Episode 71: Verklempt, anon, hotch, and more
Discover the quirky meaning of 'hotch' through amusing scenarios that make learning enjoyable. Explore the fascinating concept of 'fungibility' and its implications in sports and finance. Delve into the emotional depth of 'verklempt,' and how it contrasts with feelings of contempt. Unpack the 80-20 rule and its surprising impact on productivity and revenue, complemented by memorable examples. Finally, revel in the rich vocabulary of 'rapprochement' and other intriguing terms, complete with playful mnemonics to spice up your conversations.

Jun 14, 2025 • 29min
Episode 70: Numismatics, philately, brazier, and more!
Dive into the playful world of vocabulary as the hosts explore the quirky term 'brazier' and its culinary connections. Discover the fascinating realms of numismatics and philately, sharing nostalgic tales of coin and stamp collecting. Enjoy a whimsical look at words like 'risible' and 'recalcitrant,' packed with mnemonics and humorous anecdotes. Unravel how language shapes cultural expectations while enhancing your vocabulary in creative and entertaining ways.

Jun 7, 2025 • 21min
Episode 69: Abstruse, griffonage, bumptious, and more!
Dive into the complexities of words like 'abstruse,' enriched by memorable mnemonics and real-life connections. Discover the fine line between 'griffonage' and glyphs through fun anecdotes about handwriting. Explore the quirks of vocabulary with terms like 'bumptious' and 'genteel,' equipped with techniques for retention. Uncover humor in meanings of 'ungulate' and 'ornery,' while embracing engaging stories. Finally, unravel the drama behind 'histrionics' and playful terms for nature, making vocabulary learning both entertaining and enlightening!

May 31, 2025 • 21min
Episode 68: Musit, extirpate, extraterritoriality, and more!
Discover intriguing vocabulary as the hosts dive into words like 'attestation' and 'indolent,' offering memorable mnemonics. Learn about 'extirpate' and 'extraterritoriality,' exploring their significance in removal and law. Delve into the captivating definitions of 'musit' and 'neuroplasticity,' highlighting the brain's adaptability. The conversation also covers 'lackadaisical,' addressing its meanings and origins while dispelling common mispronunciations. It's an entertaining journey through the richness of language!