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The etymological odyssey of “Odysseus”
Tell me, O Muse, of the origin of the name of the man of many devices. And why Latin calls him “Ulysses,” if you don’t mind. Read more.
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Semiquincentennial: the origins of an America-sized word
This big word for a big milestone is made up of lots of little Latin roots. Read more.
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“Football”: a simple word with striking roots
Cock-threshing. Shrovetide. Hocktide. I-mutations. Grimm’s Law. Octopodes. Pajamas. Private schools, private parts, and the resistance thereof. The origin of “football” has it all. And I go medieval on it. Read more.
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Dragged “kicking” and “spurring”—and “spurning”
There is a lot of interesting etymology afoot thanks to sports in summer 2026. Plus, the word “kick” is younger than you think. Read more.
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Why are they called the New York “Knicks”?
When it comes to the etymology of the name “Knicks,” Washington Irving is the MVP. But the real MVP? The Dutch. Read more.