A look at different theories for the origin of the word “rum,” which takes us to Britain, Southeast Asia, and the Caribbean. Plus, an etymology originating with rum production in Alaska. Word List: rum, taffy, toffee, hooch, proof, groggy. For more information or for a list of sources, visit www.wordjourneyspodcast.com.

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We explore Commedia dell'Arte, a form of popular entertainment originating in Italy in the 16th century, and trace how its colorful characters left their mark on the English language. Word List: vagabond, zany, Mr. Punch, harlequin, pants, denim, jeans. For a list of sources or to contact us, visit www.wordjourneyspodcast.com

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In our first survey episode, we look at the many English words derived from Taino, a pre-Colombian Caribbean language. Word list: savanna, prairie, mangrove, hammock, barbecue, buccaneer, jerky, maize, potato, tobacco, petunia, hurricane. For a list of sources or to contact us, visit www.wordjourneyspodcast.com

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We explore the history of the word “mammoth” and early America's fossil obsession. Word List: mammoth, mastodon. For more information and for a list of sources, visit www.wordjourneyspodcast.com

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The story of how two valleys in the Holy Roman Empire influenced modern scientific and economic terminology. Word List: superman, neanderthal, dollar, peso. For more information and for a list of sources, visit www.wordjourneyspodcast.com

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