The First American Dictionary: Johnson or Webster?
Ammon Shea looks at who wrote the first American dictionary.
Oxymoron – Podictionary Word of the Day
The podictionary word of the week is “oxymoron”.
An Etymologist As Lord of the Flies,
Or, Chicanery and Shenanigans All Over the Place
Anatoly looks at the origin of the word “chicanery.”
Honest – Podictionary Word of the Day
The podictionary word of the day is “honest”.
Helpmeet, Or Can Stillborn Words Prosper?
Anatoly Liberman looks at the story on the word “helpmeet.”
Etymology and Scandal
In the course of this month, two journalists have approached me with questions related to political scandals. My answers, neither of which has been printed in full, may perhaps interest the readers of our blog. They regarded the typicality of phrases such as Ponzi schemes, and using names as verbs.
Jolly Yule
Anatoly’s post has seasonal cheer.
Shoe
Ammon Shea looks at expressions that use the word “shoe”.
Philately – Podictionary Word of the Day
The podictionary word of the week is philately.
What is Gibberish to One is an Etymology to Another
Anatoly Liberman looks at the origins of the word “gibberish”.
Dashboard – Podictionary Word of the Day
The podictionary word of the week is “dashboard”.
As Etymologists You Depend on Look-Alikes? Cool!
Anatoly Liberman looks at the origins of words that look-alike.
OED All Over The Place
The OED is popping up all over the place!
What’s an expert?
Ammon Shea wonders what makes an expert?
Spinster – Podictionary Word of the Day
The podictionary word of the week is “spinster”.
Conundrum: A Cold Spoor Warmed Up
Anatoly looks at the possible origins of the word “conundrum”.