Origins in Five

Gossip: From Godparent to Rumor

In this episode of Origins in Five, we trace the surprising history of the word gossip. What now means rumor, scandal, and private talk once referred to a trusted godparent or close companion present at childbirth. Questions? Comments? Email us at originsinfive@gmail.com.

Eavesdrop: How Secret Listening Started Under the Roof

What does a roof have to do with secretly listening in on someone else’s conversation? In this episode of Origins in Five, we trace the word eavesdrop from medieval houses and dripping rainwater to gossip, spying, and the legal records of early modern England.  Questions? Comments? Email us at originsinfive@gmail.com.

From Genius to Insult: The Story of Dunce

Why does dunce mean a slow learner when it came from the name of a brilliant medieval scholar? In this episode of Origins in Five, we trace the strange journey from John Duns Scotus to the insult dunce—and the sad history behind the dunce cap. Questions? Comments? Email us at originsinfive@gmail.com.

Sandwich: The Gambling Earl Behind the Word

Why do we call it a sandwich? In this episode of Origins in Five, we trace the word back to John Montague, the Earl of Sandwich, and the famous story of a meal designed for long hours at the card table.   Questions? Comments? Email us at originsinfive@gmail.com.

Island and the Silent S That Never Belonged

Why does island have an S that nobody says? In this episode of Origins in Five, we trace the word back through Old English and Middle English to uncover how a mistaken link to French and Latin gave island a silent letter it was never meant to have. Questions? Comments? Email us at originsinfive@gmail.com.