A Way with Words - language, linguistics, and callers from all over
Society & Culture
When you had sleepovers as a child, what did you call the makeshift beds you made on the floor? In some places, you call those bedclothes and blankets a pallet. This word comes from an old term for “straw.” And: What’s the story behind the bedtime admonition “Sleep tight, and don’t let the bedbugs bite”? Plus, when grownups are talking about sex or money, they may remind each other that “little pitchers have big ears.” It’s a reference to the ear-shaped handle on a jug, and the knack kids have for picking up on adult topics and then spilling that new knowledge elsewhere. Plus, a word game, lick the calf over, lady locks, when clothes become laundry, towhead, build a coffee, and more.
Read full show notes, hear hundreds of free episodes, send your thoughts and questions, and learn more on the A Way with Words website: https://waywordradio.org/contact. Be a part of the show: call 1 (877) 929-9673 toll-free in the United States and Canada; worldwide, call or text/SMS +1 (619) 800-4443. Email words@waywordradio.org. Twitter @wayword. Copyright Wayword, Inc., a 501(c)(3) corporation.
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Ding Ding Man (Rebroadcast) - 14 August 2023
Gleam in Your Eye - 7 August 2023
Take Tea for the Fever (Rebroadcast) - 31 July 2023
Alligator Mouth - 24 July 2023
Sun Dog (Rebroadcast) - 17 July 2023
High Jinks - 10 July 2023
Oh For Cute (Rebroadcast) - 3 July 2023
Coinkydink (Rebroadcast) - 26 June 2023
Spinning Cookies - 19 June 2023
Up Your Alley (Rebroadcast) - 12 June 2023
Just Skylarking - 5 June 2023
Piping Hot (Rebroadcast) - 29 May 2023
Folding Money - 22 May 2023
Mimeographs and Dittos (Rebroadcast) - 15 May 2023
Takes the Cake - 8 May 2023
Truth and Beauty (Rebroadcast) - 1 May 2023
Dessert Stomach (Rebroadcast) - 24 April 2023
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