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Etymology of the Day: Heyday
Back in my heyday, we’ve heard our fathers so often begin some boast of long-lost glory. The heyday of the train, the heyday of radio, the heyday of the flip-phone – each of these remembers some technological golden age of yore. Perhaps you’ve wondered: What is the hey– in heyday? As it turns out, we’re Read more.
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Why is it called the “Ides” of March?
We don’t know where the word “Ides” comes from or why the Ancient Romans used plural words for singular dates. Thanks, Caesar. Read more.
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Under the etymological cover of “coverage”
The roots of coverage span from medieval fire prevention to famous Scottish diaries. On Monday, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimated that 24 million Americans will lose coverage over the next decade under the Republican plan to replace Obamacare. Let’s follow up on last week’s look at insurance by reading over the etymological terms Read more.
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Etymology of the Day: Skosh
“Some more coffee?” “Just a skosh more, please.” “These brownies are so delicious!” “I add a skosh of cayenne pepper to the batter.” Skosh is a fun and informal term for a small amount or a little, but its origins are mighty surprising. . Read more.
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Who knew the word “insurance” was so complicated?
Insurance ultimately comes from the Latin securus, “free from care.” Health insurance was front and center this week as Speaker of the House Paul Ryan debuted his contentious plan to repeal Obamacare. As Washington continues to deal with the political complexities of health insurance, let’s deal with the etymological complexities of the word insurance. Read more.
Mashed Radish 