Word History
a weekly exploration of etymology
Word History is a concise etymology podcast produced and hosted by Leon, also known as Etymoleon. The series is dedicated to tracing the origins and evolution of words, names and phrases within the English language. Each fifteen-minute episode explores the development of a given term, from its earliest recorded usage in ancient or classical languages to its present-day form and meanings. By examining how meanings shift over time, Word History reveals connections between language and the broader movements and moments that shape society and history. Designed for the curious listener, the podcast provides an accessible introduction to etymology, along with stories and events from the past. New episodes every Sunday.
Also available on other platforms.
If you like word origins, play Derivety, the daily etymology challenge.
Listen to highlights from episodes…
EPISODE 72: CORPORATE GIANTS II
The company name Vinted, for the second-hand clothing marketplace, is a play on the word vintage. How did the word vintage evolve from the Latin vīnum, meaning wine, to signify something old?
EPISODE 45: SLEEP
Why is it forty winks, and not twenty, thirty or fifty?
EPISODE 73: MYTHOLOGY
The word nemesis derives from the goddess of retribution. Achilles' heel is derived from the story of Achilles, the great warrior whose only weakness was a single, vulnerable heel.
EPISODE 61: CONTRADICTING MEANINGS II
Egregious once referred to something exceptional, in a positive way, but is now used to describe something exceptionally bad. Silly comes from the Old English which meant lucky or happy.
EPISODE 29: FINE DINING
Tyres to restaurant ratings - the history of Michelin stars.
EPISODE 41: GESTURES
The origin of shaking hands might go back to weapons being concealed in sleeves, and fist bumping may derive from boxing.
EPISODE 46: NAMES, ROYALTY
Bluetooth is named after a 10th century king - here's why...
EPISODE 57: SOFT DRINKS
The name history of IRN-BRU.
EPISODE 56: SHOES
Persians on horseback inspired upper class men in Europe to begin wearing heels.
EPISODE 31: SPORTS
The history of polo.