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This episode unlaces the origins of terms for different types of footwear. Plimsolls owe their name to a British politician, while sneakers got theirs from the idea of wearers sneaking around unnoticed. Persian soldiers inspired European nobles to adopt high heels, which were practical for standing in stirrups; the term stiletto, referring to a long heel, traces back to an Italian word for a dagger. Find out why sandals have nothing to do with sand, and uncover the roots of the phrase 'shoe on the other foot'.
By Leon Bailey-Green4.5
1414 ratings
This episode unlaces the origins of terms for different types of footwear. Plimsolls owe their name to a British politician, while sneakers got theirs from the idea of wearers sneaking around unnoticed. Persian soldiers inspired European nobles to adopt high heels, which were practical for standing in stirrups; the term stiletto, referring to a long heel, traces back to an Italian word for a dagger. Find out why sandals have nothing to do with sand, and uncover the roots of the phrase 'shoe on the other foot'.

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