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Inside the “establishment”
As the candidates run for the US presidency, there’s one word many are running against (and from): establishment. We see the term especially used for the mainstream Republican party, though Bernie Sanders is increasingly positioning himself against a Democratic establishment. What established this word establishment, etymologically speaking? Establishment The English language first sets up establishment in the late 15th century. Early on, establishment named a “settled arrangement,”… Read more.
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Flying, flap-eared pigs?
I wanted to point you to some other pieces I have around the web. You’re forewarned: Some strong language lies ahead. A few weeks back, I had a post on the OxfordWords blog: “Pig, dog, hog, and other etymologies from the farm.” As I note: We’ve left the farm and have wandered into the woods to discover where some very… Read more.
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Introducing Shakespeare Confidential
So, I’ve started a new yearlong project. Shakespeare died in 1616. I’m going to read everything he wrote in 2016 and write about it. I’m calling it Shakespeare Confidential. It’s going to be accessible, personal, and human, so don’t worry if Shakespeare feels Greek to you. You can find it – and follow it – at www.shakespeareconfidential.com and @bardconfidensh.… Read more.
