Episodes

  • The Surprising Journey of 'Soccer'
    Jun 17 2023

    In this episode, we delve into the fascinating history of the word 'Soccer'. Join us as we explore its origins, its journey across the Atlantic, and how it came to represent one of the world's most popular sports.


    Citations:

    1. "Why Do Some People Call Football “Soccer”?" - Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/story/why-do-some-people-call-football-soccer


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    3 mins
  • The Story Behind 'Cheers': A Toast to Language and Celebration
    May 31 2023

    In this special episode of "The Lexicon Files: The Stories Behind Words," we dive deep into the history of the word 'Cheers'. Discover how this word, synonymous with toasting and celebration, evolved over the centuries. We'll also explore its cultural interpretations, and how it has become a universal symbol of good wishes. As we raise our glasses to language and history, we also make a special toast to a dear friend.

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    4 mins
  • Memetic Journey: The Evolution of the Word 'Meme'
    May 28 2023

    From its origins in the world of biology to its proliferation in the digital realm, the word 'meme' has made quite a journey. Join host Oliver Wordwright as he delves into the fascinating history and evolution of this word that has become a cornerstone of internet culture. Discover how British evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins coined the term and how it's traveled from academia to becoming an internet sensation.

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    3 mins
  • Spilling the Secrets of "Spill the Beans"
    May 20 2023

    Join us on this episode of The Lexicon Files as host Oliver Wordwright dives into the fascinating origin, history, and stories behind the common phrase "Spill the Beans". What do these beans have to do with revealing secrets? Tune in to find out!

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    2 mins
  • Unraveling 'Brass Tacks': From Metal to Metaphor
    May 17 2023

    Join us as we delve into the captivating journey of the phrase "Let's get down to brass tacks." Unearth its earliest uses, debunk some hypotheses, and discover how this phrase, supposedly with metallic origins, took on a life of its own as a linguistic gem.


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    3 mins
  • Decoding 'Eureka!': Archimedes' Legendary Exclamation
    May 11 2023

    In this episode of "The Lexicon Files: The Stories Behind Words," Oliver Wordwright unravels the fascinating tale behind the exclamation "Eureka!" Learn how it's connected to the ancient Greek mathematician and inventor Archimedes and his famous bathtub discovery, as well as how the word has evolved through the ages to become a powerful symbol of sudden insight and innovation.


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    5 mins
  • I've Got a Bad Feeling About This: The Star Wars Catchphrase That Echoes Through the Galaxy
    May 3 2023

    Celebrate Star Wars Day with host Oliver Wordwright on "The Lexicon Files: The Stories Behind Words" as he explores the history and origins of the iconic phrase "I've got a bad feeling about this." Discover how this simple expression became a beloved catchphrase in the Star Wars franchise and beyond, and how it continues to resonate with fans and moviegoers alike. May the Fourth be with you!

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    4 mins
  • The Tasty Transformation of 'Sandwich': From an Earl's Craving to a Culinary Staple
    May 2 2023

    Join host Oliver Wordwright on "The Lexicon Files: The Stories Behind Words" for an appetizing journey into the history of the word "sandwich." Discover how this culinary staple got its name from an 18th-century British aristocrat and his late-night snack craving, and how it has since become a beloved and versatile dish enjoyed around the world.

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    4 mins