Tag: English
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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.
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What’s up with the “syne” in “Auld Lang Syne”? On etymological times long past
How do you ring in the New Year? Why, with neuter dative-case pronouns and adverbial genitive suffixes, of course!
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A simple “yes” or “no”? Nope. Not etymologically.
The origins of the words “yes” and “no” are knotty—and “naughty.”
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The 2025 Etymology of the Year
“Fascism” is a challenging word for a challenging moment, and its origins may bear lessons for us.
Mashed Radish 