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Mashed Radish

Mashed Radish

Etymology at the intersection of news, life, and everyday language.

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  • Like tiny, perfect poems: the origins of “daisy” and “window”

    Like tiny, perfect poems: the origins of “daisy” and “window”

    Great God! Sometimes etymology offers us some sorely needed poetry. Read more.

    John Kelly
    March 28, 2026
    Feature

  • How the game of chess and Persian kings gave us the word “check”

    How the game of chess and Persian kings gave us the word “check”

    Thanks to literal chess moves, the English word “check” ultimately derives from the Persian word for “king.” Plus, a surprising connection to your yoga practice. Read more.

    John Kelly
    March 15, 2026
    Feature

  • Withstanding the sands of time: the origin of “Iran”

    Withstanding the sands of time: the origin of “Iran”

    The name Iran, rooted in an ancient self-designation, has survived the rise and fall of empires past and present. Read more.

    John Kelly
    March 1, 2026
    Feature

  • An etymological trip to northern Italy: Milan, Cortina, Lombardy, and more

    An etymological trip to northern Italy: Milan, Cortina, Lombardy, and more

    Of beards, fields, curtains, and sparkly rocks Read more.

    John Kelly
    February 15, 2026
    Feature

  • Hawks vs. Patriots, etymology edition

    Hawks vs. Patriots, etymology edition

    Of seizing and fatherlands Read more.

    John Kelly
    February 8, 2026
    Repost

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Mashed Radish

Mashed Radish

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