Short showHistory of Phrases
Dive into the fascinating etymology behind the sayings and expressions we use every day. Discover the surprising historical events that shaped our vocabulary and understand the literal meaning behind what you speak. This show is essential listening for language lovers and trivia buffs who want to master their daily conversation.
Latest drops:
Heard It Through the Grapevine
The surprising origin of the world's first social network.
The Origin of the Red Herring
A political lie that became a common phrase.
Fly Off the Handle
The violent origin of a common idiom for losing your temper.
Getting the Sack
The literal origin of a common phrase for being fired.
Spill the Beans
How an ancient Greek vote explains this modern phrase.
Bite the Bullet
The real origin of this famous phrase isn't what you think.
Above and Below the Salt
How seasoning once defined your social rank
Loose Cannon
The naval nightmare behind a common idiom
Draw a Blank
A Tudor lottery explains your memory lapses.
Grandfathered In
The racist roots of a common legal loophole