Why do we say as mad as a hatter? | IDIOM ORIGINS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-05-07 | Rob and Jess "pull out all the stops" in this episode explaining idiom origins. ✈️ Why do we say "balls to the wall" and "push the envelope"? 🐘 What's so useless about a "white elephant"? 👕 Where were the original "whole nine yards"?These questions answered and many more in this common sayings special of Words Unravelled.Here's our other idioms episode: youtu.be/Fkf61-j8VmQ?si=3aT-HHAbtKAERunh👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
100 Quick-fire Word Facts Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-10-15 | Internet word nerds RobWords and Jess Zafarris share 100 word facts. They met in person for the first time after Words Unravelled reached 100,000 subscribers on YouTube. Prepare for 49 minutes of pure linguistic geekery.👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
3 Antiquated Words from Samuel Johnsons Dictionary Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-09-22 | Rob and Jess discuss three words we must bring back at all costs.
Who was the first to spill the beans? | SAYINGS EXPLAINED Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-09-17 | Enjoy exploring some idiom origins. And learn languages for 7-days FREE at Lingopie! learn.lingopie.com/words-unravelledIn this episode, Jess and Rob 'spill the beans' about all manner of food-related idioms.🍌 Why does 'going bananas' mean mad?☕️ Who is the Joe in a 'cup of Joe'?🍏 What did we compare apples to before oranges?🧅 What does it really mean to 'know your onions'?Answers to these questions and many more as we explore the origins of commons sayings in Words Unravelled.OTHER IDIOM EPISODESyoutu.be/Fkf61-j8VmQ?si=3GWneox_uAN1NsXIyoutu.be/ca3lz3dXgW8?si=9D_DE4-MiJ9jV5IK👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Why are we saying Caesar wrong? | TITLES & POWER Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-09-10 | In this episode, Rob and Jess take a right royal romp through the etymologies of eminent titles. They discuss the origins of words like "lord", "emperor", "queen" and a whole host of others:🏛️ How did Caesar become a title all over Europe?𓁏 What did 'pharaoh' mean to the ancient Egyptians?👑 What is the etymology of the word 'king'?🗳️ What is a 'timocracy' or a 'kakistocracy?These questions answered – and many more – in another Words Unravelled.👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
What does dinosaur literally mean? | DINOSAURS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-09-03 | Time to dig up some prehistoric word origins. In this episode, Jess and Rob unearth the literal meanings behind the names of the dinosaurs.🦖 What does Tyrannosaurus rex really mean?🦕 Why is Stegosaurus called the “roof lizard”?🐦 Are dinosaurs birds or lizards?🦴 Are dinosaur names Latin or Greek?These questions answered – and many more – in another monstrous episode of Words Unravelled.🌐 LINKS 🌐Charlie the Unicorn: youtu.be/CsGYh8AacgY?si=s0AwwpXqwB_1_GhXRob's dinosaur video: youtu.be/7FOamlJf-28?si=sKbN6Bjw0s7LukG7👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #dinosaurs #jurassicworld
What is the Eng in England? | COUNTRY NAME ORIGINS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-08-27 | We're taking a world tour of word origins. In this episode, Jess and Rob discuss how a multitude of countries got their names.🇺🇸 Where was the original "America"?🇬🇧 Why is Britain called "Great"?🇨🇦 What does "Canada" mean?🇩🇪 Why do the Germans call themselves "Dutch"?These questions answered – and many more – in another worldly wise episode of Words Unravelled.🌐 LINKS 🌐Rob's UK country names video: youtu.be/aXAjMlTO7Dc?si=DpZ8oZlH8h6iVX0ORob's European countries video: youtu.be/2Pcv2ySMi40?si=4YQMmeUL4FcPBOn7👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #geography
Pasta words hidden on planes Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-08-25 | 🐍 Snakes on a plane ❌🍝 Pasta on a plane ✅Which types of pasta will you find hidden in aviation and plane-related words? #etymology #aviation #wordorigins
Why do news anchors all sound the same? | NEWS WORDS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-08-20 | Let's explore journalese and newsy language. And go to https://ground.news/words for a better way to stay informed. Subscribe for 40% off unlimited access to world-wide coverage through our link. BREAKING: Rob and Jess uncover news clichés and weird journalistic words. In this episode our word nerds discuss:📺 Why do TV news anchors talk in that strange way?🗞️ Why do newspaper journalists spell lead as "lede"?🎤 Why do journalists use clichés like "on the rise"?🐊 What is a "knobbly monster"?These questions answered – and many more – in another hot-off-the-press episode of Words Unravelled.👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #journalism #news
Why dont meteorologists study meteors? Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-08-15 | Enjoy a bit of meteorological and etymological education (and a lot of silliness), including the etymology of “meteorology” itself. #etymology #wordorigins #history #weather #languagelearning
How could one man write a dictionary? | SAMUEL JOHNSON Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-08-13 | Samuel Johnson's 1755 dictionary was one heck of an achievement. But it is also far from perfect. In this episode, Jess and Rob discuss some of the more amusing entries within its pages, and even the words that landed dear Samuel in hot water. Enjoy this cover-to-cover exploration of English's most important dictionary and the extraordinary man who wrote it.👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net📘 JESS'S BEAUTIFUL BOOK 📘Bookshop . org: tinyurl.com/UselessEtyAmazon: tinyurl.com/UselessEtyAZB&N: tinyurl.com/UselessEtyBN👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Why do we say because internet? Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-08-07 | Grammar Girl shares the origin of this abbreviated internetism. #etymology #grammar #wordorigins
Why is it called a cockpit? | AVIATION WORDS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-08-06 | Welcome aboard flight WU321 bound for Etymology Island. In this episode, Rob and Jess take to the skies and soar through the word origins of a multitude of aviation terms.✈️ Is it an 'airplane' or an 'aeroplane'?🐓 Why do pilots sit in a 'cockpit'?🛩️ Why is English the language of aviation?🔠 How did the NATO alphabet come to be?These questions answered – and many more – in a high-flying episode of Words Unravelled charting the etymology of flight.👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Synergy is way older than you realized Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-07-31 | In our episode on the origins of corporate jargon and business speak, we addressed the fact that "synergy" is a word with an ancient and even biblical backstory.#etymology #history #wordorigins #literature
How did currencies get their names? | MONEY WORD ORIGINS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-07-30 | In for a penny, in for a pound: Rob and Jess discuss money word origins in this episode of Words Unravelled.💰 Where did the dollar sign come from?💷 What is the British currency a pound of?🤑 Which goddess is all money named after?These questions answered – and many more – in a financially sound episode of Words Unravelled.🏆 VOTE FOR US 🏆The British Podcast Awards listeners' choice award: britishpodcastawards.com/voting👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #english 0:00 Intro0:25 Award nomination gloat1:59 Podcast resumes
Why were hatters mad? Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-07-24 | #etymology #podcast #wordfacts #history #english
Does English use the wrong word for clouds? | WEATHER WORDS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-07-23 | Jess and Rob have got their heads in the clouds, exploring the origins of our words for weather.☄️ Why don't meteorologists deal with meteors?☁️ How are we using the wrong word for 'cloud'?☔️ What was the original 'raincheck'?🤬 Why does Jess hate the word 'petrichor'?These questions answered, and many more, in this etymological meteorological episode of Words Unravelled.🌐 LINKS 🌐Our games video (re: chess): youtu.be/vBa8CIltJ24?si=BxcDAYTk7yLYq5jaOur Christmas video (re: reindeer): youtu.be/9A0hAxeFyo4?si=ECL0SFZJUcKUo50LRob's video about ugly and beautiful words: youtu.be/hh5yEKPNEtM?si=LMvCxuv7KvH4E23T👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
What’s the difference between an ass and an ass? #etymology #podcast #englishlanguage #wordfacts Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-07-17 | ...
Exposing grammar myths and mistakes with Grammar Girl Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-07-16 | Is it "on accident" or "by accident"? Should "red, white, and blue" have that second comma? Is "10 items or less" okay? Jess and Rob are joined by the internet's Grammar Girl, Mignon Fogarty, to examine some common grammatical myths and mistakes.🥳 Is it wrong to use "fun" as an adjective?🏎️ Is "drive SLOW" bad grammar? (or just a flat adverb?)🥃 Why does "tonic and gin" sound weird?These questions answered, as well as many more, on Words Unravelled.Mignon's podcast: quickanddirtytips.com/grammar-girlMignon's books: amazon.com/stores/Mignon-Fogarty/author/B001JS0XMW👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Why is English full of French words? Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-06-25 | Learn languages for 7-days FREE at Lingopie! learn.lingopie.com/words_unravelled And enjoy learning about the many French words in English in this episode of Words Unravelled.Bienvenue dans cet épisode de "Mot Décortiqué"! Rob and Jess are exploring the enormous influence French has had on the English language. 📊What proportion of English words are French?🥩Why do our meats have French names?🇫🇷Which words have we borrowed from French twice?These questions answered and many, many more in another merveilleux, fabuleux Words Unravelled.👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Precisely how long is a moment? | TIME WORDS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-06-18 | Jess and Rob present a brief history of time words in an episode filled with chronological etymology.⌚️ How did "seconds" get their name?🕰️ What does "clock" literally mean?🇫🇷 How did France's decimal calendar work?These questions answered – and so many more – in this timely episode of Words Unravelled.Our mythology episode: youtu.be/b8s2uxWrMhQ?si=G--tQQwAj9mKHk-S👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
What was the original blockbuster? | MOVIE WORDS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-06-11 | Lights, camera, action! Rob and Jess are discussing movie and TV terms in this filmic episode of Words Unravelled.🎥 Why do Brits call movies "films"?🤷🏼♂️ Why has Allen Smithee directed so many terrible movies?🙀 Why is there a "dead cat" on every Hollywood set?These questions answered, and many more, in this episode crammed with film and television etymology.👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on Blueky: robwords.bsky.socialJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Why is there a cat in caterpillar? | BUG WORDS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-06-04 | Time for some entomology etymology! Rob and Jess will have you in bits as they explore the literal meaning of "insect" and all manner of other term for creepy crawly.🕷️ Why do spiders spin "cobwebs"?🦋 Was a butterfly ever a "flutterby"?🐞 Which is older, "ladybug" or "ladybird"?These questions answered, and many more, a critter-crammed episode of Words Unravelled.👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Why is the Pope the daddy? Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-05-28 | Holy heck! Rob and Jess are back with an episode of biblical proportions. Join them as they get to the gospel truth about the origins of religious words.⛪️ What was kept in the very first chapel?🦛 Which animal was the original behemoth?🗝️ Where does the word "conclave" come from?These questions answered – and many more – in another Words Unravelled.👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Busting the nylon myth Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-05-22 | Nylon does not get its name for a New York to London flight. So how did it get its name? Rob explains.#etymology #words #wordsunravelled👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Why do Brits think pants are underwear? | CLOTHING WORDS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-05-21 | Jess and Rob are unravelling the origins of our words for fabric and clothing in this highly fashionable episode of Words Unravelled.🩲 Why do 'pants' mean different things in the UK and US?👖 Which city are your jeans named after?🪶 What's flappy about a 'flapper girl'?✈️ Is 'nylon' really named after New York and London?These questions answered, and many more, in our most unravelly episode of Words Unravelled.👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Why is there an N in passenger? Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-05-14 | It's time to hit the road with Rob and Jess as they journey through the origins of words from road and rail.🚃 Why do Brits say "transport" and Americans "transportation"?🚊 What's the difference between a train and a locomotive?🚙 How do you actually pronounce Hyundai?These questions answered – and many more – in this transport[ation] special of Words Unravelled.👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Is it a restroom or a loo? Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-04-30 | Let's explore British English and American English. In another transatlantic war of words, Rob (a Brit) and Jess (an American) debate the differing words for the same things either side of the pond.For our new Channel Memberships click "Join" just below the video. Here's our previous 🇺🇸 vs. 🇬🇧 episode: youtu.be/o6KlBd7TPFI?si=EHmBIMV3PatoSQi9👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Did Shakespeare write all his plays? Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-04-23 | We're back for a new 🇬🇧series/🇺🇸season of Words Unravelled. In this episode, transatlantic word nerds Rob and Jess tackle the truth and lies surrounding William Shakespeare.✍️ Did the Bard really invent 1,700 words?🤬 Which insults did Willy give us?🎭 Could he actually have written all of those plays?These questions answered and many more, just As You Like It.👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
How do you pronounce lieutenant? | MILITARY WORDS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-04-02 | There's fightin' talk in this episode of Words Unravelled, in which Jess and Rob discuss words of warcraft.🔫 Which woman are all guns named after?🪖 Where does the word "war" come from?👮 Is lieutenant pronounced loo-tenant or lef-tenant?These questions answered – and many more – in this military etymology special of Words Unravelled.👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #words #military
Why do we mind our Ps and Qs? | PRINTING TERMS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-03-26 | In this printing special of Words Unravelled, Jess proves herself a font of knowledge on names for typefaces and Rob makes a big impression with the history of the printing press.🆎 What's the difference between a font and a typeface?😈 Who was the printer's devil?📖 How did the printing press ruin English spelling?These questions answered — and many more — in this cliché-free episode of Words Unravelled.👕 OUR MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Where do swear words come from? Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-03-19 | It's here: the much-requested swearing episode of Words Unravelled. Join Rob and Jess as they explore the origins of all manner of profanity.#️⃣ Where did the F word come from?📍 Which place names originally contained swear words?📺 What are the worst words you can say on TV?These questions answered, and many more, in this NSFW edition of Words Unravelled.👕WORDY NERDY MERCH👚Our EU and US shops cover most of the world between them:🇪🇺🇬🇧: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net🇺🇸 wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.com👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Which flower makes you wet the bed? | FLOWER NAME ORIGINS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-03-12 | Welcome to another bloomin' wonderful episode of Words Unravelled. This time, Rob and Jess are discussing the origins of all manner of flower name.🌻Which flower makes you wet the bed?👁️Which flower's name means "day's eye"?🌹What is the origin of the word rose?🥒What did Jess name her cucumber plant?These questions answered - and many more - in this anthology of horticultural etymologies.Merriam-Webster's flowers that sound like insults: merriam-webster.com/wordplay/plant-names-that-sound-like-insults 👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Is this a rhetorical question? | RHETORIC & LITERARY DEVICES Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-03-05 | Who wants to learn how to talk pretty? In this episode, Rob and Jess explore the clever tricks used by poets, novelists and speechwriters to surprise, move and persuade us. Join them as they discuss rhetoric and literary devices.😉 What are the three types of irony?❓Do you know an anaphora from an epistrophe?🤷🏼♀️ Why is tmesis so un-flippin'-believable?These questions answered and many more in another Words Unravelled.👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Lady of the Mercians (Old English-focused creator mentioned by Jess): tiktok.com/@lady_of_the_merciansRob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
How did our naughty bits get their names? | BODY ETYMOLOGY Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-02-26 | Let's discuss the etymology of the body from "head" to "toe". Join Rob and Jess on an adventure through anatomical word origins.👅 Why is tongue spelt that way?🍎 What did we originally call our Adam's apple?🍆 How did our naughty bits get their names?These questions answered and many more in a body-positive episode of Words Unravelled.👕 OUR NEW MERCH 👚US SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.comEU/UK SHOP: wordsunravelledshop.myspreadshop.net👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.EDITING: Martyn Williams==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Whats the difference between a violin and a fiddle? | MUSIC WORDS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-02-19 | Let this episode be music to your ears as Rob Watts and Jess Zafarris explore the melodic origins of all manner of musical words.👦 Which instrument used to be called a "ho boy"?🎤 What does "karaoke" literally mean?🎷 Who is the saxophone named after?🎶 How good is Rob's theremin impression?These questions answered, and many more in another Words Unravelled.👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Who invented zero? | MATH & NUMBERS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-02-12 | Join Rob and Jess as they explore the origins of a myriad of mathematical terms and innumerable number words.💯 What number was the original "hundred"?♾️ What is the infinity symbol called?🕚 Why does English have weird words for 11 and 12?These questions answered - and numerous others - in an incalculably fun episode of Words Unravelled.👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Who was the original goodfella? | CRIME WORDS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-02-05 | Rob and Jess are on the wrong side of the law in this criminal episode of Words Unravelled. Join them as they discuss the origins of all manner of words for felony, misdemeanour and malfeasance.🏴☠️ What is so black about blackmail?🏚️ What is the "burg" in burglary?💰 What's the difference between "robbery" and "theft"? 🎩 What Victorian prison slang are we still using today?Those questions answered and many more in this episode filled with criminal etymology.👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #crime
Who was the first to paint the town red? | IDIOM ORIGINS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2025-01-29 | In this episode, Rob and Jess debunk some myths about the origins of common sayings and present the even more fascinating true stories behind the idioms we use day-to-day.🔴 Who was the first to "paint the town red"?🌩️ How can someone's "thunder" be "stolen"?🐕 What's the (horrible) origin of "to screw the pooch"?🥃 Where did the phrase "on the wagon" come from?These questions answered and many more in another Words Unravelled.👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.Editing by Martyn Williams==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Is he Santa Claus or Father Christmas? | FESTIVE WORD ORIGINS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2024-12-18 | Join Rob and Jess for a festive feast of Christmas etymology.🎅🏼 Is Santa Claus an Americanism?🎩 Who was Sir Christmas?🦌 How did the Santa's reindeer get their names?🎶 Is it "four calling birds" or "four colly birds"?These questions answered and many more as we deck the halls with linguistic intrigue in another episode of Words Unravelled.👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
What did a sin-eater do? | JOB ETYMOLOGY Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2024-12-11 | Let's explore our words for jobs, professions and trades.🪵What did carpenters originally make?🐐Which animal did butchers originally butcher?💩Where did a "gong farmer" actually farm?🛒What is so gross about a grocer?These questions answered and many more in another Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris.👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Is it a full stop or a period? | PUNCTUATION Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2024-12-04 | Join Rob and Jess for a period as they get straight to the point about punctuation.🏛️ Which punctuation mark came first?💀 How can you punctuate sarcasm?❓ Why does a question mark look like that?These questions answered - and many more - in another punctilious episode of Words Unravelled.👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #punctuation
Is corporate jargon a value add? | JARGON ETYMOLOGY Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2024-11-27 | Time to bust some jargon in another Words Unravelled. In this episode, Rob and Jess wade their way through the sea of business speak and legalese.🦍Which joke created the "800-pound gorilla"?🪶Is all jargon a modern invention?🏛️What do legal Latin phrases literally mean?These questions answered and many more in another wordy nerdy episode of Words Unravelled.👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Who is the Jack in a deck of cards? | GAME WORDS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2024-11-20 | In this playful episode of Words Unravelled, Rob and Jess dive into the fascinating world of fun and games. Ever wondered why we call it "chess" or how "poker" got its name? From the origins of classic card games to the strategic world of board games, our hosts uncover the surprising stories behind the words we use for play.♠️ Who is the Jack in a pack of cards?♟️ What exactly is a pawn?🌍 How did Jenga get its name?🅾 What's the best possible Scrabble word?These questions answered and more! ♖ Whether you’re a chess master or a card shark, this episode is your backstage pass to the etymology of entertainment.👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.Editing by Martyn Williams.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordorigins #chess
Which cocktail means moist little thing? | BOOZY WORDS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2024-11-13 | ❗️HEADS UP❗️ This episode includes much alcohol talk 🍻 Rob and Jess are getting a round in at the bar in this episode crammed with boozy etymology. Let's explore the origins of our words for beers, wines and spirits, and delve into the stories behind the names of cocktails.🍺 Where does the word "beer" come from?🍹 How did the "negroni" get its name?🥴 How many words for "drunk" to Brits actually have?Grab a nip of your favourite liquor, mix yourself a mocktail or pull yourself a pint, and enjoy another episode of Words Unravelled.👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
How can tree and truth be related? | WOODLAND WORDS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2024-11-06 | In this episode of Words Unravelled, Rob and Jess explore woodland words. Join us to uncover the extraordinary origins of names for forest flora and fauna.📕 Which trees are books named after?🦔 Which animal is the "hedgehog of the sea"?🦡 What does it actually mean to be "badgered"?These questions answered, and many more, in another Words Unravelled.👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
How are people using mortified wrongly? | EMOTION ETYMOLOGY Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2024-10-30 | 🤔 Where do our emotions come from? In this episode of Words Unravelled, Rob and Jess dive deep into the fascinating origins of the words we use to express how we feel! From the familiar words like "sad," "mad," and "glad," to the more complex emotions of feeling "mortified" or "envious," we explore the linguistic history that shaped these terms and how their meanings evolved over time.Join us as we uncover the surprising roots and cultural influences that color our emotional vocabulary. Whether you're a language lover, a curious mind, or just along for the linguistic ride, you’re in for an engaging journey through the language of emotion.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to Words Unravelled for more word mysteries unraveled every week!#WordsUnravelled #etymology #wordfacts 👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
Whats the were in werewolf? | SPOOKY ETYMOLOGY Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2024-10-23 | In this episode of Words Unravelled, Rob and Jess dig into the spooky origins of Halloween words. From 'ghosts' and 'ghouls' to 'warlocks' and 'witches', they uncover the hauntingly fascinating roots of supernatural lingo. 🐺 What is the 'were' in werewolf?🧌 Why is there a 'monster' in 'demonstrate'?🦇 What does 'vampire' literally mean?These creepy questions answered and many more. Join us... if you dare 👻👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.📙 JESS'S BOOK 'WORDS FROM HELL': https://linktr.ee/JessZafarris==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #ghoststories #halloween
Why does oxygen have the wrong name? | ELEMENTS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2024-09-18 | In this episode of Words Unravelled, Rob and Jess explore the fascinating stories behind the names of the elements of the periodic table. From gods and mythological creatures to places and famous scientists, discover how history, language, and culture have shaped the names we use in chemistry today.💨Why does oxygen have the wrong name?🧌Which element is named after a mischievous mythological figure?🇸🇪Why has a small Swedish village inspired four element names?Tune in for an educational yet fun journey through the periodic table, and don’t forget to subscribe for more wordy wonders with Words Unravelled!👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #wordfacts #English
What is antidisestablishmentarianism? | THE LONGEST WORDS Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris 2024-09-11 | In this pulchritudinous episode of Words Unravelled, Rob and Jess discuss the longest words in English and beyond: from antidisestablishmentarianism to opadotemachoselachogaleokranioleipsanodrimhypotrimmatosilphiokarabomelitokatakechymenokichlepikossyphophattoperisteralektryonoptekephalliokigklopeleiolagoiosiraiobaphetraganopterygon.❓What does floccinaucinihilipilification mean?⛈️What sound does Bababadalgharaghtakamminarronnkonnbronntonnerronntuonnthunntrovarrhounawnskawntoohoohoordenenthurnuk represent?😱Hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia is the fear of what?These questions answered and many more in another Words Unravelled. 👂LISTEN: podfollow.com/words-unravelled-with-robwords-and-jess-zafarrisor search for "Words Unravelled" wherever you get your podcasts.👕 ROB'S MERCH: robwords.myspreadshop.com🎥 JESS'S TIKTOK: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris==LINKS==Rob's YouTube channel: youtube.com/robwordsJess' Useless Etymology blog: uselessetymology.comRob on X: x.com/robwordsytJess on TikTok: tiktok.com/@jesszafarris#etymology #antidisestablishmentarianism #WordsUnravelled
