Episode 33: Etymology

KaraSeason 22026"Language Through the Ages"EtymologyOverview Episode
Written By Kara Nyhan

We’re Talking Words, Not Bugs

Part 1 of Our Mini-Series: “Language Through the Ages”

Let’s talk language! Specifically, this episode delves into a brief history and overview of the study of etymology. Learn about the method of research for etymology, the difference between semantics and syntax, and the historical backgrounds of words like “weird” and “orange”! This episode sets the stage for further deep-dives into language studies as well as the use of etymology in our other episodes.

Discussion Includes:

  • Definitions and Clarifications of Language Categories

  • Overview of Scientific Etymological Study

  • Examples of Etymology

  • Examples of Vernacular

  • Homophones!

© Wolf & Stag Productions LLC, 2026

Images:

All Images Are Used For Commentary, Analysis, and Education Purposes under the Fair Use Act

COMING SOON!

References:

  • Britannica Editors. (1998, July 20). Etymology | Word origins, Language History, Semantics. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/etymology

  • Durkin, Philip, 'Etymology', in John R Taylor (ed.), The Oxford Handbook of the Word (2015; online edn, Oxford Academic, 13 Jan. 2014), https://doi.org/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780199641604.013.025, accessed 27 Feb. 2026.

  • Liberman, A. (2024). Origin uncertain. https://doi.org/10.1093/oso/9780197664919.001.0001

  • Oxford English Dictionary. (n.d.). https://www.oed.com/?tl=true

  • Research guides: Word Etymology / Dictionaries: Etymology / Dictionary Resources. (n.d.). https://libguides.usna.edu/dictionaries

  •  Roig Marin, A. D. (2020). Vernacular vocabulary in the Durham Account Rolls (1278-1538): a philological approach [Apollo - University of Cambridge Repository]. https://doi.org/10.17863/CAM.65715

  • Payne, & Laura. (2024, January 10). Vocabulary | Definition, Examples, & Facts. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/vocabulary

  • lexicon. (2026). https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/lexicon

  • semantics. (2026). https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/semantics

  • vernacular. (2026). https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/vernacular?q=Vernacular

  • https://etymologyrules.medium.com/the-importance-of-etymology-in-literacy-history-and-law-a7a5e987652

  • Mayer, J. (2023, June 6). The interesting etymologies of 71 everyday words. Mental Floss. https://www.mentalfloss.com/language/words/interesting-etymologies-everyday-words

  • Editors of Merriam-Webster. (2025). 8 Words with Fascinating Histories. In Merriam-Webster. https://www.merriam-webster.com/wordplay/words-with-fascinating-histories

  • Monroe, M., Monroe, M., & Monroe, M. (2024, May 21). Irish English vs. American English (& Other Cultural Differences). AIFS Study Abroad Blog. https://blog.aifsabroad.com/2017/08/02/irish-vs-us-english-cultural-differences/

  • The Irish language’s influence on our concepts of thought and imagination | IrishCentral.com. (2016, October 6). IrishCentral.com. https://www.irishcentral.com/roots/history/the-irish-languages-influence-on-english-of-thoughts-and-imagination

  • Guerriero, & Bill. (2023, July 18). Homophone | Meaning, spelling, homonym, & Homograph. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/homophone

  • Brewer, R. L. (2023, February 11). 30 Homographs Examples for Writers. Writer'S Digest. https://www.writersdigest.com/write-better-fiction/homographs-examples-for-writers


Kara Nyhan

I am a graphic designer, film producing & director, and small business entrepreneur. My work focus is on creative and arts organizations and individuals, helping to create graphics, marketing materials, branding, and websites that fit their needs. I have a B.A. in Graphic Design and a M.B.A with a focus in entrepreneurship. Currently, I do business as Lore Art & Design.

https://www.lore-art-design.com
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Episode 32: Octopuses