Mashed Radish

Mashed Radish

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

  • About
  • Browse
  • Contact


  • “Strait” vs. “straight”: straight talk on strait differences

    “Strait” vs. “straight”: straight talk on strait differences

    Etymologically, ‘strait’ is “strict” and ‘straight’ is “stretched.” Read more.

    John Kelly
    April 26, 2026
    Feature

  • Phases of the word “moon”

    Phases of the word “moon”

    Artemis II has me waxing philosophical, poetical, and, of course, etymological. Read more.

    John Kelly
    April 12, 2026
    Feature

  • Why Easter is called “Easter”

    Why Easter is called “Easter”

    Easter, in both observance and word origin, is about new beginnings. Read more.

    John Kelly
    April 5, 2026
    Feature, Repost

  • 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

1 2 3 … 115
Next Page→
Mashed Radish

Mashed Radish

About

Browse

Contact

© John Kelly 2024

 

Loading Comments...