| Subject | Date Asked |
|
| the historical use of the word 'euphemism' | 11/15/2009 |
Q: I would like to know whether the word 'euphemism' was already used in its contemporary meaning at ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, 'Euphemism' , the use of an indirect expression instead of ...
|
| meaning of the word center | 11/10/2009 |
Q: i was wondering where the word center came from. i know that cent comes from centum meaning 100 but ...
A: Here is the origin of the word 'center' from the Dictionary of Etymology: late 14c., from O.Fr. ...
|
| etymology of | 11/2/2009 |
Q: I am analyzing a newspaper article that compares hedge fund mismanagement to the behavior of "second ...
A: The term 'sugar daddy' is used to depict the salacious older man who spends large amounts of money ...
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| etymology of "second wives" | 11/2/2009 |
Q: I am analyzing a newspaper article that compares hedge fund mismanagement to the behavior of "second ...
A: The expession 'second wives at a Jimmy Choo sale' means individuals who are spending money freely ...
|
| Letter etymology | 11/1/2009 |
Q: Just a quick enquiry as to the origin of the word "letter", in relation to the form of message. Does ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, The word 'lettre' meaning knowledge of reading and ...
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| Etymology of a phrase | 10/29/2009 |
Q: Despite much searching I cannot find any explanation for the phrase "tip-top", as in tip-top ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, 'Tip-top' is beieved to be military slang which worked its ...
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| mean of | 10/13/2009 |
Q: i have just read a few of your replies to various question, and found them very interesting could ...
A: I hope that you are having a fine week, There seems to be consensus that the term "Chinese ...
|
| Origin of the phrase "Ol' buddy, ol' pal, ol' friend of mine" | 10/12/2009 |
Q: I am wondering about the origins of this common phrase "Ol buddy, ol' pal, ol' friend of mine" - I ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week. You probably are not finding 'Ol buddy, ol' pal, ol' friend ...
|
| Question about etymology | 10/11/2009 |
Q: I am looking for a etymology of word hope. I need some really good information. Thank you!
A: Please forgive the delay. I didn't notice this question until just now. (10/12) Ernest ...
|
| Mealagh | 9/19/2009 |
Q: I live in the Mealagh Valley near Bantry West Cork Ireland, and have been told the word mealagh ...
A: I hope you've had a fine weekend, My etymological sources did not find a connection between ...
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| pirate phrases | 9/17/2009 |
Q: What is the etymology of "All hands ahoy!"
A: I hope you're having a fine week, First, let's address the word 'ahoy'. A well documented ...
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| origin of phrase | 9/13/2009 |
Q: What is the origin of the phrase 'pear-shaped'? Thank you.
A: "It went pear-shaped" is used, in common English jargon, to refer to a project that resulted in ...
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| Phrase etymology | 9/12/2009 |
Q: What is the origin of "funny bone" ? Regards Charley
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, Just to make certain that my notion was correct, I checked ...
|
| Etymology | 9/11/2009 |
Q: Please which one of these two sentences is correct: If you are lead to bless me. If you are led to ...
A: I hope you are having a fine weekend, My specialty is etymology; the origins of English words ...
|
| origin of phrase | 8/22/2009 |
Q: What's the origin of "out the ying yang"? I assume it's a reference to the asian symbol yin yang ...
A: I hope you are having a fine week, We find the following information on 'out the ying yang' on ...
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| latin or greek word which means thanks or giving thanks | 8/1/2009 |
Q: can u please refer some words from Greek or Latin orgin which means "THANKS" Or "GIVING THANKS"
A: My specialty is etymology; the origins of English words and phrases. But I'll take a stab at this ...
|
| HOUSE NAMES | 7/31/2009 |
Q: My mother's house in Broadstairs in Kent is called 'MARSHAM'. We woul love to know the derivation ...
A: I hope you are having a fine week, I wish there were more our research could find about the ...
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| origin of a phrase | 7/30/2009 |
Q: What is the origin of the phrase " death before dishonor " ?
A: I hope you are having a fine week, My research shows that the phrase was an ancient cry used by ...
|
| wine | 7/30/2009 |
Q: What is meaning + origin What is meaning +orign of wine oorigin of the word"wine"
A: I hope you are having a fine week, According to Barhart's Dictionary of Etymology, the word ...
|
| why | 7/29/2009 |
Q: Why are the forms of the verb "read" pronounced in different ways? The answers like "due to the ...
A: I hope you're having a fine day, The forms of the verb read are pronounced differently to ...
|
| low and below | 7/27/2009 |
Q: I am trying to find out the origin of the expression "low and below" or "lo and below" and the real ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, Could it be that the expression you're interested in is "lo ...
|
| Origin of "partner" | 7/27/2009 |
Q: I understand the basic meaning/roots of the word, but I am curious as to when/how it was adopted by ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week. The word partner has a venerable history descending from the ...
|
| Curious phrase | 7/24/2009 |
Q: Where did the phrase "looking to" come from? I think it is funny for people to say, "I'm looking to ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, Using the word 'looking' in the way you specify is a ...
|
| meaning of the word "follow" | 7/21/2009 |
Q: I heard recently that the original meaning of the word "follow" means "back". I would like to know ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, Barnhart's Dictionary of Etymology is considered the bible of ...
|
| "you can do this" | 7/12/2009 |
Q: I don't know if I'm the only one who has noticed this and not sure when it started, but the ...
A: Your question is "Since they (the expressions) both mean the same thing, why has one replaced the ...
|
| kognoscere | 7/5/2009 |
Q: I am interested in etymology of the word "cognition" Etymological dictionary speaks of the Latin ...
A: I hope you are having a fine weekend, For the first time in approximately 25 years, I will have to ...
|
| Kick the bucket | 7/2/2009 |
Q: What is the origin of the phrase "kick the bucket"
A: I hope you're having a fine week, There are numerous theories as to the origin of the phrase ...
|
| Origin of phrase | 6/25/2009 |
Q: Can You tell me anything about the origin of the phrase Ask a Marine?" I have come across it in ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week. If my sources are correct, "Ask a Marine" was part of a ...
|
| Origin / author of a motto | 6/11/2009 |
Q: Could you please identify the origin or author of our class motto "Before Us Lies The Timber; Let Us ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, I found the following information about the slogan "Before Us ...
|
| phrase meaning/origin | 5/5/2009 |
Q: Please describe the origin of the phrase " you're in safe hands" and elaborate on the meaning. Thank ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, The expression "You're in Safe Hands" is the enduring slogan ...
|
| derivation of the name Winifred | 5/5/2009 |
Q: Where did this name originate and what is it's meaning?
A: I hope you're having a fine week, The girl's name Winifred \wi-nif-red, win(i)-fred\ is ...
|
| origin of where i live | 5/3/2009 |
Q: i live on lower howsell road, in malvern there is upper hosell road and howsell road. Where does ...
A: Research indicates that Howsell was a relatively common surname in England and Wales at around the ...
|
| Anglo-Saxon word | 5/3/2009 |
Q: What common food takes its name from an Anglo-Saxon word meaning "MOULDY". Any help would be ...
A: Mouldy itself is a natural substance in the form of a wooly or furry growth of tiny fungi that ...
|
| 1859 Websters Dictionary | 3/8/2009 |
Q: I have inherited an 1859 websters dictionary Pictorial Edition. I am having trouble finding in ...
A: and welcome to a new week, I have several suggestions: 1. Call the Strand Book ...
|
| translating Ovid | 3/7/2009 |
Q: I am at line 145 of Ars Amatoria Book I What does facito mean? Is it part of facio?
A: Latin is not my specialty but I'll give it a try . I believe that facito means: I make or I do but ...
|
| Word origin | 2/28/2009 |
Q: I've heard the word "Berk" used towards people in a perjorative fashion, I've been told it's an ...
A: Yes, Berk is from English slang and is an extremely vulgar term. From a dictionary on Cockney ...
|
| meaning | 2/26/2009 |
Q: meaning for the name 'judith'
A: I hope that you're having a fine week, The name 'Judith' is a Biblical name meaning 'Jewess' or ...
|
| origin of "Caribbean" | 2/12/2009 |
Q: Why is it "Caribbean" rather than "Caribean"...why the 2 "b"s?
A: I hope you're having a fine day. Etymology of Caribbean: From Carib or Caribe, a tribe ...
|
| ideology | 2/9/2009 |
Q: can you explain this one for me, then? thank you.. I just need to have a better understanding so to ...
A: I hope all is well with you and that you're having a fine week, Ideology is the branch of ...
|
| cabinetry/construction term | 2/5/2009 |
Q: What is the origination of the term "fur (or furr?) out" as in to fur out a wall or mount cabinets ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, I found the following description of 'mounting on furring ...
|
| Please Interpret | 2/1/2009 |
Q: What does the term 'thank you' mean? Where was it originated? How is it best described? Thank you!
A: I hope you're having a fine day, Thank (stemming from the Old English 'thancian) appears in the ...
|
| Origin of phrase | 1/31/2009 |
Q: What is the origin and etymology of "Good Morning"?
A: Good Morning to you ! There is agreement among etymologists that Goodbye, Good morning, Good ...
|
| meanining of an expression | 1/7/2009 |
Q: What does "begging the question" mean
A: Happy New Year! I hope you're having a fine week, The phrase 'begging the question' can be ...
|
| Mifflin | 1/1/2009 |
Q: I have just watched a film about the American Civil War,in the credits there were a number of ...
A: Mifflin is simply a place name and, Civil War sources believe that the original Mifflin Guard was ...
|
| root and meaning of "navidad" | 12/24/2008 |
Q: I know that "feliz navidad" means "Merry Christmas" in Spanish, but I have one of these crazy purist ...
A: Greetings and best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Joyous and healthy New Year, [The Spanish ...
|
| etymology of the word "belief" | 12/16/2008 |
Q: I am curious to learn the etymology of the word "belief."
A: I hope you're having a fine week, The word 'belief' stems from the Middle English word 'beleven' ...
|
| origin of phrase | 12/13/2008 |
Q: When and how did "works for me" originate?
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, We are still in the dawn of the computer age and a great ...
|
| etymology>knock it off | 11/7/2008 |
Q: i've found 'knock' and tens of variations, but i cannot find this one: knock it off, as the ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week. There are two popular etymologies for "knock it off: One ...
|
| idiom | 11/5/2008 |
Q: What is the origin and the first attestation of the idiom 'pedal to the metal'?
A: I hope you're having a fine week, The expression 'pedal to the metal' surfaced about 25-30 years ...
|
| Etymology | 11/4/2008 |
Q: There are some birds called dowitchers asnd my dictionary (Chambers) says that it is derived from an ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, Yes, 'dowitcher' is from the Iroquoian word 'tawistawis' ...
|
| "Performance" and "Person" | 9/16/2008 |
Q: I'm wondering if the word Performance and Person have anything to do with each other. I see in ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, The word 'persone' surfaced in English in about 1200 and was ...
|
| old bean | 9/12/2008 |
Q: what does it mean to call someone "old bean"?
A: I hope you've had a fine week, Calling someone an 'old bean' is an affectionate term usually ...
|
| Etymology Reference Guide | 9/9/2008 |
Q: Can you recommend a reference guide or dictionary that specializes in the etymology of phrases? ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, There are many such books on phrase origins. Morris' ...
|
| phrase question | 9/3/2008 |
Q: Where did the phrase "connect the dots" originate?
A: I hope you're having a fine week, 'Connecting the dots' derives from a children's activity game. ...
|
| define: problematic | 8/28/2008 |
Q: My professor tells us that the meaningn of 'problematic' is 'it may or may not exist.' Online OED ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, I've always found Webster's New International Dictionary (2nd ...
|
| source quote "seventh heaven" origin | 8/24/2008 |
Q: I loved your etymology re: origin of phrase, "seventh heaven". You ascribed it of mainly Islamic ...
A: I hope you've had a fine weekemd. I do remember the 'Seventh Heaven' question but I'm, ...
|
| tennis term origin | 8/18/2008 |
Q: I would like to know the origin of the term "let". Thank you
A: The tennis expression 'let' , the sense of interference with the ball in tennis and similar games is ...
|
| Meaning of a Greek name | 8/6/2008 |
Q: I was wondering if you could enlighten me on a question about the name Cronus. I've done a bit of ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week. A customarily reliable website provided the following: ...
|
| I plum forgot... | 7/29/2008 |
Q: Do you know of any bkgd on this idiom? I would love to know, thanks!
A: Good Wednesday morning, I hope you're having a fine week. The word 'plumb' (pronounced ...
|
| Meaning of Indian word | 7/22/2008 |
Q: While traveling in northern Minnesota, I saw the Kawishiwi River and Kawishiwi Lake. I wonder what ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, Experts agree on one thing when it comes to the meanings of ...
|
| thank you | 7/14/2008 |
Q: derivation of this expression
A: I was prepared to answer quite simply that 'thank you' descends from Old English and originally ...
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| Etymology of Phrases | 7/14/2008 |
Q: I am curious about the derivation of the phrase, "ear-piercing sound". Does this actualy mean a ...
A: 'Ear-piercing' (also, 'ear-splitting) is a good example of hyperbole, making a point (no pun ...
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| phrase etymology | 7/10/2008 |
Q: Do you know where the phrase "drop dead deadline" came from?
A: I hope you're having a fine week, The etymology sources I've checked all seem to agree that ...
|
| honky dory | 7/1/2008 |
Q: where did this originate?
A: I hope you're having a fine week, I had a few theories about the origin of 'honky dory' but ...
|
| Sporting events | 6/30/2008 |
Q: If in Germany one would say "Public Viewing" to refer to many people watching a sporting event on a ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, You're right! In the United states the term 'Public Viewing' ...
|
| the word fail | 6/16/2008 |
Q: did the word (fail) ever mean to lie?
A: According to Barnhart's Dictionary of Etmology the word 'fail' has never meant to lie;. Fail: ...
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| help! | 6/11/2008 |
Q: Pozefsky, I needed to know the etymology and history of the word dedication please. THANK YOU SO ...
A: Greetings! I hope you're having a fine week, First, the definition: Dedication: ...
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| origin of a phrase | 6/9/2008 |
Q: would you be interested in helping me with the origin (time and place) of the phrase " Boy O Boy " ...
A: I'd be hesitant to put an exact cutoff date on the phrase, Nigel. It's always possible that someone ...
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| FAIL | 6/8/2008 |
Q: I know that the word fail originates to word 'fallere'. Could you please help me, I would like to ...
A: I hope you've had a fine weekend, The verb 'fail' means not to succeed. Here is a sample ...
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| Origin of phrase "death before dishonour" | 6/6/2008 |
Q: Please can you tell me where, when and/or from whom the phrase, "Death before dishonour" originated?
A: and welcome to the weekend, The creed "Death Before Dishonor" is (sadly) a time-honored ...
|
| 8th grade history project | 5/31/2008 |
Q: I am doing a project about the 1940's. For this project, we need to do a 30 minute skit on the ...
A: Good Monday morning to you, My specialty is etymology, the origin of Engish words and phrases. ...
|
| pinot | 5/13/2008 |
Q: would you be able to give me the meaning of the word "pinot" as in "pinot noir". i know the "noir" ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week. Pinot (a variety of the French word Pineau) refers to a vine ...
|
| haematology | 5/8/2008 |
Q: what do you mean by whole blood sample
A: I hope you're having a fine week. My medical contacts tell me that 'whole blood sample' is no ...
|
| mythical word definition | 5/5/2008 |
Q: I need to know the mythical word and relationship to the following words. panic, jovial, saturnine. ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, Panic: an excessive feeling of alarm of fear leading to ...
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| so long | 4/24/2008 |
Q: Please tell me the derivation of the phrase "so long"
A: I hope you're having a fine week. Morris' Dictionary of Word and Phrase Origins has this about ...
|
| Pipsqueak | 4/23/2008 |
Q: A local politician in Lee County, FL, recently said a political opponent is a "pipsqueak". Though I ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, The word 'pipsqueak' which first appeared in the language in ...
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| Meaning of the following phrases | 4/13/2008 |
Q: 1. He is "at 6s and 7s" 2. "Dressed to the 9s" 3. Chinese fire drill
A: I hope you've had a fine weekend. The expression 'to be at 6's and 7's' means in a state of ...
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| the meaning of dispositionalism | 4/11/2008 |
Q: could you tell me the meaning of dispositionalism? thank you for your early reply.
A: In law, 'dispositionalism' (or disposition) is the act of transferring something to another's care ...
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| Etymology (Meaning of Words) | 4/10/2008 |
Q: My question is kind of the same as that brandon kid, but mine is the ones he said he already had, ...
A: I hope you've had a fine week, Panic stems from the Greek word 'panicos' (original meaning ...
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| wedding torch parade | 4/7/2008 |
Q: what is the meaning of torch parade in a wedding in this modern age?
A: The wedding torch parade is largely ceremonial today adding pomp and circumstance to the event.(and ...
|
| poetry question | 4/6/2008 |
Q: I've been thinking about this one line for so long! I just can't figure it out!What does, "'Words ...
A: again, Yes, I believe that's what the author means. I think 'tables of the wise....' is ...
|
| poetry question | 4/6/2008 |
Q: I've been thinking about this one line for so long! I just can't figure it out!What does, "'Words ...
A: I hope you've had a fine weekend, Commonly, the word currency is used to mean monetary ...
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| etymology of the word | 4/1/2008 |
Q: Is there any historical link to the word "dating" from the word "data", as in "collecting data"? ...
A: and thank you for your 'thank you'! I have always loved the word 'disabuse' and this is a ...
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| etymology of the word "dating" | 3/31/2008 |
Q: Is there any historical link to the word "dating" from the word "data", as in "collecting data"?
A: welcome to a new week, The word 'data' (plural of datum) stems from the Latin word 'dare' ...
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| Promise | 3/31/2008 |
Q: I would like to know the origin of the word "promise". Can you please help me? Also, if you know the ...
A: The word 'promise' first appeared in Middle English in about 1400 and was spelled promys. It meant a ...
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| word origin/meaning | 3/28/2008 |
Q: where does the word humanity come from and what does it mean?
A: The word 'humanity' has several meanings. It refers to the entire family of man, the people of the ...
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| Cracker | 3/27/2008 |
Q: I am aware of the negative connotation of this word when used as "he's a cracker",but am curious as ...
A: I hope you've had a fine week, I've always heard 'cracker' used as a harmless nickname for a ...
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| "yes, it's no fine" | 3/26/2008 |
Q: When person A says "I hope you don't mind me coming late tomorrow. When person B says,"yes,it's no ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, This is a first. I think I've been with All Experts for 15 ...
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| Universe | 3/21/2008 |
Q: Pozefsky, Would it be a correct statement to say that the word universe means single spoken ...
A: I hope you've had a fine week, The word universe, which means the cosmos, the whole world, ...
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| feeling stupid | 3/19/2008 |
Q: I would like to know if there is a word in our language that describes two different phrases that ...
A: Good Morning, I hope you're having a fine week, Although it doesn't describe precisely the ...
|
| When did the word, 'bugger' occur? | 3/11/2008 |
Q: And its origin and meaning. I know that it is very common in United Kingdom. Thanx
A: Good Day, I hope you're having a fine week, The word bugger derives from the Old French ...
|
| house name | 3/11/2008 |
Q: i recently came accross a house name of LEESHOLME in Yorkshire, England, and it appears to be a ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week. My research and yours have produced virtually the same ...
|
| albatross | 3/6/2008 |
Q: Why is the word "albatross" used to describe three strokes under par on a par five hole? Thank ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week. Etymologists are usually asked for a word or phrase's origin ...
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| Meaning or Root of Word | 3/4/2008 |
Q: A word often used by my parents while I was growing up in coastal North Carolina was mommicked. I ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week. 'Mommicked' is a colorful regional word whose derivation is ...
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| Mark Capps(Mark5 from AskMe.com | 2/9/2008 |
Q: Do you remember Mark5(Mark Capps) from AskMe.com? He gave me his email address in Austin just before ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, I'm sorry but I've never known Mark Capps. I sincerely ...
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| Derivation of phrase | 2/8/2008 |
Q: Where is the phrase "pull the wool over [one's] eyes" derived? I understand it's meaning. TIA!
A: I hope you've had a fine week, The expression is believed to have originated in the United ...
|
| Origin of the word "dozen" | 1/10/2008 |
Q: I was wondering where "dozen" comes from and why we like to group things in dozens. For example, ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, The word 'dozen' stems from the Old French word 'dozeine' ...
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| Phrase Meaning | 11/18/2007 |
Q: This phrase is used in a song chorus and I'd like to know if it has any meaning. I've had trouble ...
A: Forgive the delay, I'm on vacation through December. My interpretation would be that if we ...
|
| Military phrase origin | 11/15/2007 |
Q: When I was in the U.S. Marine Corps (1986-1991), a person (or piece of equipment)that acted too ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, You are absolutely correct. 'Slower than whale shit' is a ...
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| help | 11/14/2007 |
Q: i hope someone will be able to translate into latin the quote "this to shall pass" for me thank you ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week. I provided that Latin translation for you a while ago but ...
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| The origin of "Thank You" | 11/11/2007 |
Q: I would like to know the origin of the word "thank" as in "thank you."
A: I hope you're having a good week, I was prepared to answer quite simply that the noun 'thanks' ...
|
| P's and Q's | 10/30/2007 |
Q: What is the history behind the phrase mind your P's and Q's?
A: I hope you're having a fine week, There is a lot of false etymology floating about concerning ...
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| origin police walking a "beat" | 10/29/2007 |
Q: I've been desperately trying to find out why a police officers assigned route is called a "beat". ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, As so often happens, there are numerous explanations for the ...
|
| oldest use of a word | 10/26/2007 |
Q: I am loking for the oldest use of the word "geek".
A: I hope you've had a fine week, The word 'geek' dates back to the 19th century at which time it ...
|
| The "s" in Constitution | 10/25/2007 |
Q: When I see old documents, especially from around the time the Constitution of the U.S. was written ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, What looks like an 'f' in the old documents, is really an ...
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| phrases | 10/22/2007 |
Q: meaning of: 1.changing ships on a falling tide 2.undergoing a change at sea
A: "Changing ships on a falling tide" means to switch from one's original choice to a less successful ...
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| incantation and music | 10/20/2007 |
Q: What is the etymology of the word incantation (with emphisis on its relation to singing and music)?
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, Incantation (a set of words spoken as a magic charm or to ...
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| The letter U and the latin 'tu' | 10/16/2007 |
Q: Good day to you, Thankyou for taking the time to read this. I have a question about the letter U. ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, Your question is fascinating and a clear indication that you ...
|
| IM expressions | 10/16/2007 |
Q: I recently got an IM from a old friend. He sign off using xotm.. The only short text I know is LOL.. ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, xo means a kiss and a hug. Are your initials TM? Or does ...
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| i was hoping you van do something for me | 10/14/2007 |
Q: Can you please find me where the expression "Brown nosing" comes from. thank you
A: Brown nosing is a vulgar term that emerged from American college campuses in the 1950's. To win ...
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| I need a word for a definition. | 10/6/2007 |
Q: My husband asked me if there is a word to define when someone uses their talent to hurt someone, ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, There is no single word I know or have researched that is ...
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| Meaning of Root Words | 9/21/2007 |
Q: Will you define the meaning of the root word denomination
A: I hope you've had a fine week, In religion,'denomination' is a group or branch of any ...
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| Words meaning | 9/17/2007 |
Q: What means fixture, also gage or gauge. What is the origin of these words? Thank you
A: Welcome to a new week, A fixture is anything fixed or securely fastened in position. For ...
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| Origin of a Common Phrase | 9/5/2007 |
Q: What is the origin of the phrase "chicken feed" as in "I am being paid chicken feed"? I know what ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, The American term 'chicken feed' meaning a paltry sum of ...
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| word search | 9/1/2007 |
Q: The word which describes someone who constantly employs quotations in speech or writing?
A: I hope you're having a fine week, My specialty is etymology, the origins of ENglish words and ...
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| Etymology | 9/1/2007 |
Q: I was wondering how a words etymology is studied. Where and how can someone with no background find ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, Etymology is everywhere. If you have a good dictionary ...
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| word orgin | 8/30/2007 |
Q: I've just heard that the word "plagiarism" is a derivative from the Latin word "kidnap" -- is this ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week. Yes the word 'plagiarism' does stem from the Latin word ...
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| origin of term | 8/23/2007 |
Q: is the term "kissin' cousins" a derivative of "kith and kin"?
A: I hope you're having a fine week. 'Kissin' cousins' is a sourthern Americanism that predates ...
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| word combinations | 8/2/2007 |
Q: I came here after a google search and read that you described a 'compound word' but what do you call ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week. Words that are formed in such a way (skort ...a combination ...
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| Scottish dialectical evidences | 7/26/2007 |
Q: My genealogical research into my father's ancestry has made me aware that some family speech ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, Your question is fascinating and I wish that 'glottogony', ...
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| Belief system | 7/10/2007 |
Q: what is a word for belief system .For example climate change,budism,athiesm.
A: I hope you're having a fine week, The word 'philosophy' would fit the bill. If you allowed for ...
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| slang | 7/5/2007 |
Q: What is the derivation of the American term for a w.c.,"john"?
A: I hope you're having a fine week, Morris' Dictionary of Word and Phrase Origins has this entry ...
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| bow wow | 7/3/2007 |
Q: yesterday while discussing the sounds we teach children that animals make, "bow wow" came up as not ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, Yes, you're absolutely correct. Bow wow is onomatopeic and ...
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| Origin of the word, "picnic" | 7/2/2007 |
Q: Can you tell me the origin of the word, picnic?
A: The word 'picnic' is first seen in Lord Chesterfield's Letters to his Son in 1748. At the time it ...
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| etymology | 6/28/2007 |
Q: Would you be able to tell me the etymology of the words 'expert' and 'snobbish'? Thank you!
A: I hope you've had a fine week, The word 'expert' is found in the Wycliffe Bible in the year ...
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| Holy Cow | 6/8/2007 |
Q: Where does the expression, "Holy Cow!" come from?
A: Holy Cow is believed to be a variant of sacred cow, a reference to the revered status of cows in ...
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| meaning of term | 6/1/2007 |
Q: What does "cousin once removed" mean?
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, Cousin once removed means a cousin who is removed by one ...
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| verbal expression | 5/31/2007 |
Q: where did the phrase "caught red handed" originate?
A: (and, tomorrow, a new month) I was quite certain that I knew the correct etymology for your phrase, ...
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| etymology | 5/30/2007 |
Q: I know it means the fear of glass (presumably broken?) or crystals but cannot trace any reference ...
A: The common name for a phobia to glass is 'hyalophobia' although 'nelophobia' is occasionally seen as ...
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| Englisch wurd | 4/28/2007 |
Q: If I pepper the landscape with near misses do you think you could identify for me a word I can no ...
A: I hope you had a fine weekend, I'll frustrate you even more by telling you first of all that ...
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| eighteenth-century expressions | 4/27/2007 |
Q: I'm working on a historical novel (although I can think of dozens of reasons why I shouldn't be, I ...
A: again, I remember some years ago watching a cooking show guest prepare some of the Patrick ...
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| eighteenth-century expressions | 4/26/2007 |
Q: I'm working on a historical novel (although I can think of dozens of reasons why I shouldn't be, I ...
A: Partridge's Dictionary of Slang and Unconventional English has this to say about 'blue-light' : ...
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| Beg off | 4/24/2007 |
Q: I am curious as to the origins of the phrase "beg off." Is it only used in American English? Did ...
A: My sources tell me that beg off is, as you wisely guessed, American in origin and primarily American ...
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| Nakhr | 4/13/2007 |
Q: I have been trying to find the meaning of the name Nakhr or Nakhar, which is a wadi in Oman, cutting ...
A: The name "Nakhar" means 'noticed', or 'noticed one'. It is an indication that the name-giver ...
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| letter spacing | 3/30/2007 |
Q: Was the word forget ever written as two separate words (for get)?
A: According to Barnhart's Dictionary of Etymology, the word 'forget' was never two words. It stemmed ...
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| origin | 3/30/2007 |
Q: what is the origin of the word "contract"? Thanks.
A: The verb 'contract' meaning to make an agreement occurs in English in the 14th Century (Chaucer's ...
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| meaning of this phrase? | 3/28/2007 |
Q: illegitimus eglasius pax carborundum (i'm not for sure if this is the correct spelling)
A: I hope you're having a fine week, This phrase has been floating around for 10 years or so. ...
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| Phrase origin | 3/17/2007 |
Q: I am looking for the origin of the phrase "shoot first, ask questions later." Any idea? Thanks, ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, The Shoot first , Ask Questions Later motto sprang from the ...
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| origin of phrases | 3/11/2007 |
Q: what is the origin of "do the math" or "you do the math"? When was it first used
A: I hope you're having a fine week. The phrase 'you do the math' is very new (appromimately 3-5 ...
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| Brunette | 3/4/2007 |
Q: Is a girl or woman with a light or lighter shade of brown hair a brunette?
A: I hope you've had a fine weekend, A brunette is a woman with brown hair; not dark, not light, ...
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| vocabulary | 3/2/2007 |
Q: Is there such a word as this: 'eggmatic?' I read about this in a selection about reading.
A: No, there is no established English word 'eggmatic'. However, there might be a coined name of that ...
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| word | 2/19/2007 |
Q: Could you please tell me if you know of a word that has only one meaning or definition? I'm looking ...
A: I hope you've had a fine weekend. My specialty is etymology; the origins of English words and ...
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| the common female name ending "a" | 2/10/2007 |
Q: What is the origin of the use of the ending "a" pronounced "ah" as a common ending for female names ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, 'A' is used as a diminutive suffix usually to indicate the ...
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| Origins of a phrase | 12/11/2006 |
Q: I am trying to find out when and where the phrase "The whole is greater than the sum of the parts" ...
A: welcome to a new week, The term "The whole is greater than the sum of its parts" originated ...
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| Not at all | 12/5/2006 |
Q: Carol, thanks for responding, but no, I didn't find the post about the phrase, "not at all." Please ...
A: The phrase 'not at all' is akin to similar shorthand phrases such as 'don't mention it' , 'my ...
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| Etymology of an idiom | 12/4/2006 |
Q: I would like to know the etymology of the idiom,"a needle in a haystack."
A: I hope you're having a fine week, Morris' Dictionary of Word and Phrase Origins writes: ...
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| meaning of English language phrase | 10/29/2006 |
Q: Bring to bear 1) meaning 2) example of usage 3) THANK YOU !!!
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, First, as you requested the meaning of 'Bring to bear': ...
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| english phrases | 10/25/2006 |
Q: what is the meaning of the following two phrases "to pull the wool over my eyes", "to put one over ...
A: I hope you are having a fine week, The idiom 'to pull the wool over one's eyes' means to ...
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| Meaning of a word | 10/16/2006 |
Q: I see the word Kaweah used a lot in California. Usually to designate a street name, park name etc. ...
A: The place name 'Kaweah' stems from the Black Kawia Colony of Indians, a Native American nation which ...
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| mythical origins of words | 10/15/2006 |
Q: I have been assignement that is due tuesday, and i have worked for hours on it. What I have to do, ...
A: I hope you had a fine weekend, Museum stems from the Greek word 'mouseion' which means home of ...
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| meaning and derivation of phrase | 10/11/2006 |
Q: What is the meaning and derivation of the phrase "one fell swoop?"
A: In 'one fell swoop' means in one quick powerful motion'. For validation, I searched and found the ...
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| Is it 'thing' or 'think' | 10/10/2006 |
Q: What is the correct wording of the phrase, "If you think (something), then you've got another (thing ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, I have a feeling that your co-worker is older than you. The ...
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| origin of "kick in the head" | 10/3/2006 |
Q: Where does the phrase "kick in the head" originate?
A: I hope you're having a fine week, The slang phrase 'kick in the head' meaning a big surprise, ...
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| make your own luck? | 9/28/2006 |
Q: I am curious as to the derivation of the phrase "you make your own luck." I think, many, many years ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, You're a good researcher! Although the expression is ...
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| origin | 9/24/2006 |
Q: What does the word eagle derive from? I want to get an eagle tattoo and want to make sure there are ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, I don't think you have anything to worry about.The word ...
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| making a place for the word 'irregardless' | 8/12/2006 |
Q: So last night I got into a barroom discussion about the word 'irregardless.' And I think a lot of ...
A: I hope you've had a fine weekend, I think you've put forth a superb argument in support of the ...
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| family motto | 8/12/2006 |
Q: I was wondering if you could translate the Neel motto, "nomen extendere factis." I just married into ...
A: I hope you've had a fine weekend, My specialty is etymology; the origins of English words and ...
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| English words | 8/11/2006 |
Q: Can I know the meanings of these three words? Twerp maunder contumacious Thank you
A: I hope you've had a fine weekend, A 'twerp' is slang noun meaning an insignificant, petty ...
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| Slang Derivation | 7/30/2006 |
Q: How and when did women's breasts came to be referred to as a rack?
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, The slang term 'rack' for women's breasts, particularly ...
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| Leadership course ? | 7/28/2006 |
Q: I am teaching 21 students from the Middle East and N.Africa and we got into a dialogue about how one ...
A: The word 'hate' stems from the Old English word 'hatian' (meaning hatred) which appears before the ...
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| etymology of a proverb | 7/28/2006 |
Q: respected sir, what is the etymology and origin of the proverb "Beggars can't be Choosers" any ...
A: The meaning of 'Beggars can't be Choosers': If you are in need, you must accept whatever you ...
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| Latin translation | 7/26/2006 |
Q: A Dr. today referenced "ontogeny recapitularis phyogeny" - any idea of what he was referencing? ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, My specialty is etymology, the origins of English words and ...
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| gloaming | 7/25/2006 |
Q: think this is a gaelic work for sunset. intrigued by it and wonder about its origin. thank you ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, The word 'gloaming' first surfaced in Old English in about ...
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| Phrase origins | 7/24/2006 |
Q: I don't mean to be vulgar, but I heard the phrase "He has a bug up his ass" and wondered where it ...
A: That phrase, meaning to have a bothersome issue to deal with, is fairly modern, first surfacing in ...
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| bangs/ fringe | 7/24/2006 |
Q: I know that in America short hair hanging down over a person's forhead are called "bangs." While in ...
A: The term bangs, always used in the plural, is, as you know the fringe of hair usually cut squarely ...
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| Origins of latin words | 7/21/2006 |
Q: What can you tell me about the origins and geography of Atria (Hadria) is it a high place or is it ...
A: The word 'atrium' comes directly from Latin and means courtyard. Atria, the plural form, refers to ...
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| translation/ meaning of word | 7/18/2006 |
Q: what is the meaning of the word "Macaria"
A: I hope you're having a fine week, We find no English word 'Macaria' but Macaria is a female ...
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| Old phrases | 7/18/2006 |
Q: "Katy Bar The Door" means exactly what? Does this refer to the old days when the settlers or ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, Katy-bar-the-door' meanins watch out, take precautions, big ...
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| Beggars belief | 7/16/2006 |
Q: Sharon C
A: Beggar is often used, especially by the British , simply to mean rascal or scoundrel with no direct ...
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| translation please | 7/13/2006 |
Q: How would I say the words listed in Latin Death, Shadow, Dragon, Flame or fire and Destruction. ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, My specialty is etymology, the origins of English words and ...
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| food preparation | 7/12/2006 |
Q: I was wondering where the term "shuck", came from. It is the way that a clam is opened to eat.
A: I hope you're having a fine week. You've chosen an interesting word with a choice of origins. ...
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| origin of words | 7/6/2006 |
Q: Carol Do you know an origin of these words: Jewelry, jewels, jems, gold and precious ...
A: The word jewel stems from the Medieval Latin word 'jocus' meaning pastime or sport. Our word 'joke' ...
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| another word for definition | 7/2/2006 |
Q: If Syntax refers to grammar and the arrangement of words as elements in a sentence, and etymology is ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, I believe that 'synonym' is what you're looking for to ...
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| universe | 6/27/2006 |
Q: Then other day someone said that the word "universe" means "one word". I cannot find support for ...
A: I'm happy to answer your question, Universe comes to us directly from Latin. The Latin word ...
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| Word for this phrase | 6/26/2006 |
Q: What is the word for a person that believes everything,anything and every time
A: There are really no nouns for such a person but there are adjectives: A person who believes just ...
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| origin | 6/23/2006 |
Q: was the word pro shortened for somthing in the term pros and cons
A: The word 'pro' from the expression 'pros and cons' is not a shortened form of a longer word. But ...
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| Meaning of 'Animus' in Latin | 6/16/2006 |
Q: I for some years have been trying to find the word for 'courage' in latin. The closest I could find ...
A: I hope that you're having a fine weekend, You are correct! There is a better Latin word for ...
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| Word for | 6/12/2006 |
Q: I read on this same website that someone responded that we can add "ize" to any noun or adjective to ...
A: English grammarians and language purists do not accept the legitimacy or propriety of adding 'ize' ...
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| Word for | 6/12/2006 |
Q: I don't know if I spell it right, but is there such a word as independesize? I am a teacher and ...
A: 'Independesize' may have been used somewhere as an idiomatic coinage or for comedic effect but I ...
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| origin of expression | 6/8/2006 |
Q: where does the expression "knock it off" come from?
A: Our best sources tell us that 'knock it off' refers to knocking off the proverbial chip on the ...
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| "far fetched" | 6/6/2006 |
Q: A friend, when reading a list of origins of colloquialisms exclaimed that some seemed "far fetched" ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, The adjective 'far-fetched' first appeared in the mid 1500's ...
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| etymology | 6/2/2006 |
Q: what is the history of the word education its origins,,also do you know what the arabic word mecca ...
A: The specific use of 'education' meaning to instruct is first recorded in 1588 in Shakespeare's play, ...
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| english phrase meaning | 5/26/2006 |
Q: I was wondering if you could tell me the meaning of the phrase "the proof is in the pudding?" Does ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, 'The proof is in the pudding' is an abbreviated version of ...
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| tennis meanings | 5/23/2006 |
Q: Where did the term "let" derive from in the game of tennis? and what is the translation of the word ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, The tennis expression 'let' , the sense of interference with ...
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| origin of the word pimp | 5/20/2006 |
Q: I am currently doing research on the origin of the word pimp for a school project. It would be ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend. You're correct. The word 'pimp' first appeared in ...
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| phrase derivation | 5/17/2006 |
Q: Do you know where the phrase "everything but the kitchen sink" came from? Thanks
A: I hope you're having a fine week, I'm told that the origin of 'everything but the kitchen sink' ...
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| Word for a definition | 5/11/2006 |
Q: I know the definition; I just can't think of the word(s). "It can happen to others, but not to ...
A: During the Second World War there was, for the most part, unanimity of purpose; the enemies were ...
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| Translation of Central Park latin phrase | 5/10/2006 |
Q: I read this phrase on a marble bench in Central Park and wondered if you can help with the meaning: ...
A: English etymology is my specialty but I'll be happy to translate the phrase for you. "Alteri ...
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| Mind | 5/10/2006 |
Q: What is the latin word for "Mind"? And what is its definition / meaning in Latin? Best Regards, ...
A: THE LATIN WORD FOR MIND IS 'MENS' IT MEANS THE BRAIN'S STATE OF RECOLLECTION OR MEMORY. THE ...
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| "Mouth"... | 5/8/2006 |
Q: MyI was wondering about the origin of the word "Mouth". I'm interested in knowing the derivation of ...
A: and thank you for your question, The word 'mouth' stems from the Gothic 'munthe' meaning mouth, ...
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| derivation of the word "religion" | 5/3/2006 |
Q: I can't find the root word of religion, someone told me it means, to bind. Help please
A: THE WORD RELIGION STEMS FROM THE LATIN WORD 'RELIGIONEM" MEANING RESPECT FOR WHAT IS SACRED PROBABLY ...
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| Arabic language took words from english language | 5/1/2006 |
Q: my question is that my language(Arabic)has borrowed words from different language and we use them ...
A: I would love to help you but my specialty is etymology; the origins of English words and phrases. ...
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| Latin translation | 4/28/2006 |
Q: I need the translation for "That which does not kill us makes us stronger". I so far have found ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, My specialty is etymology, the origins of English words ...
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| The origin of 'Police'. | 4/23/2006 |
Q: I recently gave a talk to a business lunch group, and was asked where we get the word 'Police'. I ...
A: Greetings, I hope you've had a fine weekend, The word 'police' stems from the Greek word ...
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| Latin Translation | 4/19/2006 |
Q: I would like to thank you for your time. I would like to get a rememberance tattoo for three members ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, My specialty is English etymology but I'll be happy to give ...
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| etymology | 4/8/2006 |
Q: what is the origin of the word feedback? Feedback being defined as information given to iprove ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, The term 'feedback' first appeared in the 1920's and grew ...
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| etymology | 4/6/2006 |
Q: what is the origin of the phrase i have a bone to pick with you; bone to pick
A: I hope you're having a fine week, As you know,the idiom "I have a bone to pick with you" means ...
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| equitable | 4/5/2006 |
Q: In writing reports for qualitative market research studies, I often work with the concept of brand ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, You have posed a fascinating question but unfortunately it ...
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| derivation | 4/5/2006 |
Q: Looking for derivation of word "meaning" or its root.
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, I sent this before but somehow Allexperts says it never ...
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| Careers in Etymology | 4/5/2006 |
Q: but I was wondering if you knew how one would pursue a career in etymology? Or etymolgy related ...
A: Yes your question does not deal with the origin of words or phrases but I'll try to answer it. ...
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| word meaning | 4/3/2006 |
Q: I was recently talking to my teacher about greek numbers and when looking at the numbers we noticed ...
A: I've circulated your question to several sources and will be happy to forward any additional ...
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| Source of "Malibu" | 3/6/2006 |
Q: A friend tells me that "Malibu" is a combination of the French "mal" and "hibou" and means the ...
A: I searched many sources for the etymology of Malibu and no one seems to be certain of its origin. ...
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| Extraordinary | 3/6/2006 |
Q: The word Extraordinary is very powerful. Please give me the real meaning in a form of introduction ...
A: The etymology of 'extraordinary': The word 'extraordinary' stems from the Latin words 'extra' ...
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| The phrase "jump! how high?" | 3/5/2006 |
Q: What is the etymology of the phrase "jump! how high?" and it's various derivations? Web searches ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, The use of the expression is from recent pop culture. It ...
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| Need correct translation, lost in variables | 3/3/2006 |
Q: I would like to translate, correctly, the expression "forgive but never forget" I have arrived at a ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend. My specialty is etymology; the origins of English words ...
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| etymology and meaning of Marea | 3/3/2006 |
Q: I have been researching the word Marea, as a possible name for my daughter-to-be. Do you know the ...
A: Checking numerous source books on names, the closest we find to Marea is the modern English name ...
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| phrase origin and meaning | 3/2/2006 |
Q: Could you please tell me the origin and meaning of the phrase "I'll take a stab at it?" Thank you!
A: The term "Take a stab at it" means to try or attempt something. Used in a sentence: I haven't had ...
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| FINANCE | 2/14/2006 |
Q: In the world of high finance (Investment Banking) there is a word "Tombstone" which is used to ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, I was quite confident that I knew the origin of 'tombstone' ...
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| tsunami | 2/13/2006 |
Q: what does it mean?
A: I hope you're having a fine week. A tsunmai is a huge ocean wave, sometimes called a tidal ...
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| etymology of the word ask | 2/10/2006 |
Q: what is the etymology of the word ask?
A: The word 'ask' stems from the Old English 'ascian' (about 885). 'Ascian' is a descendant of the Old ...
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| seventh heaven | 2/6/2006 |
Q: What is the origin of the phrase: to be on the seventh heaven? Thank You!
A: AND WELCOME TO A NEW WEEK, TO BE IN 'SEVENTH HEAVEN' MEANS TO BE ENJOYING THE ULTIMATE ...
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| Latin technical terms | 2/4/2006 |
Q: I am looking for help with 4 Latin technical terms. In an article by Ramsay in the 1875 ...
A: Greetings, I hope you're having a fine weekend, My specialty is etymology; the origins of ...
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| language usage | 2/2/2006 |
Q: Pozefsky, I think you are just the expert I am looking for! I always been extrememly interested in ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, How refreshing to encounter an original, inquisitive mind! ...
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| English words derived from Latin | 1/29/2006 |
Q: I would like to have a list of the most commonly used words in our every day conversations of ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, Here are some well known English words that evolve from ...
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| What is the origin of the... | 1/26/2006 |
Q: What is the origin of the word \\\"Hispanic\\\".
A: In 1584, 'Hispanic' first appeared in English from the Latin word Hispanicus meaning Spanish. ...
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| origin of phrase | 1/19/2006 |
Q: It's clear what "thinking outside the box" means. But where did this phrase come from. It seems ...
A: I remember the 'box puzzle' we used to do in college but wanted to confirm that it was the source of ...
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| Christmas | 1/13/2006 |
Q: What is the precise meaning/derivation of the word crimbo
A: Apparently 'CRIMBO' is a slang synonym for the word 'Christmas'. See the following: The word ...
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| Origin of the word "Performance" | 12/25/2005 |
Q: I have noticed how the company I work for likes to use the word "performance" to give an overall ...
A: It's always a pleasure to meet someone who is thoughtful about the use of words; the subtleties and ...
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| Origin of the word "Performance" | 12/25/2005 |
Q: I have noticed how the company I work for likes to use the word "performance" to give an overall ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, It's a mystery to me that you never received my answer to this ...
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| assassination | 12/19/2005 |
Q: where do the words assassination and assassinate come from?
A: I hope you're having a fine week, The word 'assassination' comes from the Old French word ...
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| Word definition | 12/17/2005 |
Q: The meaning of the word "damascene" when used in the literary sense , ie His damascene conversion ...
A: Literally, damascene, used as an adjective, means characteristic of Damascus or its people. ...
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| Word meaning | 12/12/2005 |
Q: Would you please let me know the origins of the word 'holiday'. Thank you!
A: Holiday is a compound stemming from the words holy and day. The word 'holiday' first surfaced in ...
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| derivation of "therapeutic" | 12/8/2005 |
Q: I would like to know about the derivation of the word "therapeutic." Specifically: the "peu." ...
A: Therapeutic, having to do with the treatment of disease, stems from the Greek 'therapeutikos' ...
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| "Puer" | 12/2/2005 |
Q: Good evening Carol Please , hoping that you can help me.. I know the Latin word "puer" is "young ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend.. My specialty is etymology; the origins of English words ...
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| meaning of words | 12/1/2005 |
Q: Do words have relatively clear meanings, or should we be sceptical about the very notion of meaning?
A: I hope you're having a fine week, My specialty is etymology; the origins of English words and ...
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| meaning of word | 12/1/2005 |
Q: What does Pepperdine mean? Didn't know if is a proper name (someone's name) or if it has a specific ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week. Yes, Pepperdine is a proper noun. The best known bearer of ...
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| meaning of two words... | 11/27/2005 |
Q: Sir, We had a country wide test for selection to premier B Schools in India. In the test we were ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, In England 'blunk' is a fit of squally, tempestuous ...
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| ESPREON | 11/15/2005 |
Q: What is the full meaning of the word "ESPREON"?
A: I hope you're having a week. None of my good sources find the word 'espreon' in any standard or ...
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| Meaning of | 11/15/2005 |
Q: Where did the term "public servant" come from?
A: "Public servant" , as a euphemism for government employee has been in the language since the ...
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| vocabulary improvement | 11/12/2005 |
Q: How can we enlarge our vocabulary through latin and Greek morphemes?
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, It's so good to know that there are still good folks ...
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| Two words combined to make new word | 10/18/2005 |
Q: There is a term for a category of words created by combining two other words. Example: deadpan ...
A: Words that contain separate word components such as the example you give are called compound words. ...
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| "Square" for cigarette | 10/8/2005 |
Q: I was wondering if you knew the origin of using the word "square" for cigarette. Among my friends, ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, Although I've never heard the word 'square' used to mean ...
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| English to Latin translation | 10/7/2005 |
Q: I would grately appreciate the translation of "Endless Quest/Journey" into Latin
A: I hope you're having fine week, Your question is a Latin translation question. My specialty ...
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| Etymology | 9/21/2005 |
Q: I am looking for the BEST person in the world I can find to help me in my study of the history of ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week. My specialty is English etymology; the origins of English ...
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| baby names | 8/7/2005 |
Q: My wife and I are considering female names for our first child. We liked the name Ahma (our ...
A: The best to you always and congratulations on your coming event. I've just returned from a 2 week ...
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| word to describe.... | 7/4/2005 |
Q: hope you can help: What is the term for a series of letters which represent a word phonetically but ...
A: I hope you had a nice holiday, No, rebus is not a new word. As kids we used to buy rebus books ...
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| word to describe.... | 7/4/2005 |
Q: hope you can help: What is the term for a series of letters which represent a word phonetically but ...
A: Term for XTC U R never 2 old or 2 yy 2 learn that a REBUS is an enigmatic representation of a name ...
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| latin translation | 6/22/2005 |
Q: can i ask what " VIS FATI " means. thanks
A: I hope you're having a fine week, My specialty is etymology not foreign language translation ...
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| Can you answer my question? | 6/21/2005 |
Q: i recently read a poem which spurred my imagination and caused me to link its imagery to a word that ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, My specialty is etymology; the origins of English words ...
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| Meaning of a word | 6/20/2005 |
Q: Carol, Can you tell me the meaning of the word uggles? or uggels? not sure of the spelling - ...
A: Apparently 'uggles' is a new coinage because it was not contained in any of the many standard ...
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| word meanings | 6/20/2005 |
Q: what does the word columbia mean. Like British Columbia. The country Columbia and many other ...
A: British Columbia, Columbia South Carolina, the river Columbia of Northwest America as well as the ...
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| similar names | 6/15/2005 |
Q: I'm trying to connect the name Anahita, the immaculate one, from an old sumerian name and the name ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, I have a feeling that my first reply never got to you. I ...
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| Yahle | 5/26/2005 |
Q: I don't know what the word "Yahle" means, and don't even know what language is it, tried ...
A: My specialty is etymology, the origins of English words and phrases. "Yahle" is not an English word ...
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| meaning of a word | 5/25/2005 |
Q: do you know what the word COEDWAY means or its origins as we are moving to a house with it in the ...
A: The prefix 'coed' is an abbreviated form for 'coeducational' meaning education for both males and ...
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| latin translation | 5/24/2005 |
Q: carol, i hope you can help,i am a recent graduate of firefighting academy. i have been told that the ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, My specialty is etymology, the origins of English words and ...
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| smybol of torch | 5/23/2005 |
Q: what does the symbol of torch stand for,what does it mean for other countries or ethnic groups
A: The torch has always been a symbol of hope ,freedom and faith; the light of hope when all else is ...
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| word meaning | 5/11/2005 |
Q: What does 'philadelphia' mean?
A: The word Philadelphia stems from the Greek words 'philos' meaning love and 'adelphos' meaning ...
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| translation from english to latin | 5/1/2005 |
Q: think speak into latin
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, This is not a Latin translation page. My specialty is ...
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| Yoga | 4/14/2005 |
Q: What is the meaning of the word yoga and what is it's country of origin
A: Yoga is a system of Hindu ascetic philosophy and exercises that seeks union with the Supreme Spirit. ...
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| Please translate to English | 4/14/2005 |
Q: What does this mean in English? "Quod non me delet fortiorem facit" this is much appreciated becos ...
A: I'll be happy to translate this for you although my specialty is not foregin language translation. ...
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| english to latin translation | 4/10/2005 |
Q: I was wondering if you knew how to translate the two following phrases from english into latin for ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, I think you've knocked on the wrong door. What you need ...
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| Translation | 4/8/2005 |
Q: I was curious if you could trasnlate a quote from english to latin for me. " Without a struggle ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week. What you're looking for is a Latin translation page. My ...
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| Jwahyr/Jwahir | 4/7/2005 |
Q: What does the word "Jwahyr" or "Jwahir" mean?
A: 'Jwahyr' and 'Jwahir' stem from the Indian name Jawahar which means a regional leader or king. We ...
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| etymology | 4/5/2005 |
Q: I was hoping you could tell me the etymology of the word "teach" or "teaching" or "teacher" even. ...
A: The word teach stems from the Old English 'taecan' meaning to show or point out. also "to give ...
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| Latin translations for my litle brother | 4/1/2005 |
Q: Yo cazza_ I'm just after some translation of english into its Latin- if you don't have an eact ...
A: (even though it's not in the etymology category, I'll give it my best shot) BROTHERS; FRATERS ...
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| How do you say "water is life" in Latin? | 3/30/2005 |
Q: I need to know this to help someone in India who is starting a water project - getting volunteers to ...
A: My specialty is etymology; the origins of English words and phrases. But let me help you with your ...
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| Know Thyself | 3/27/2005 |
Q: .. i was trying to figure out what the proper latin phrase for "know thyself" was and i found two ...
A: The Latin phrase for 'know thyself' is 'Nosce Te Ipsum' pronounced NAW skeh tay IH psumm ...
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| What does name, Khateem, mean? | 3/14/2005 |
Q: My friend's name is Khateem. What does Khateem mean?
A: I hope you're having a fine week, My sources tell me that the name Khateem means wonderful to ...
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| "ask" | 3/12/2005 |
Q: My 8th grade French teacher told me (either as a joke or as reality, and I'm curious which it is) ...
A: No, there is no truth to that story. The word 'ask' stems from the Old Saxon word 'escon', the Old ...
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| Motto Translation | 3/2/2005 |
Q: I've been searching for the meaning to the motto "Pro Rege Et Patria." for quite some time now and i ...
A: I hope you're weekend was pleasant, Allexperts must be slipping. I sent the answer to this ...
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| Meaning of the phrase "beggars belief". | 3/1/2005 |
Q: The subject is pretty much the question! I've done a LOT of research - online and from books - and ...
A: When one says it 'beggars belief' it is another way of saying it defies belief. Or, in other words, ...
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| Chambermaid | 2/17/2005 |
Q: Could you pls tell me more about this combined word. When it was first used and why? The current ...
A: The word 'chambermaid' has been in English usage for several centuries. It first surfaced in Great ...
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| translation into latin | 2/14/2005 |
Q: could you please translate afew words for me,there for maybe a tatoo as my grandad recently passed ...
A: My specialty is English etymology, the origins of English words and phrases. I'm told there are ...
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| English Phrase to Latin | 2/5/2005 |
Q: I would like to know how 'Til Death Do Us Part' would be translated into latin.
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, I'll give it a try, although my specialty is English ...
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| English-Latin | 2/3/2005 |
Q: First, I was wondering if you happen to know Latin translation. If so, I am trying to find 2 nicely ...
A: My specialty is English etymology, the origins of English words and phrases. I'm told that Italatin ...
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| The meaning of the words | 2/3/2005 |
Q: I think perhaps I was not clear on my question. You have given me a great answer regarding the ...
A: The etymologists trace the word high to the Sanscript word 'kucati' which means 'it curves or ...
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| The meaning of the words "highway" and "freeway" | 2/3/2005 |
Q: my five year old asked the meaning of the words "highway" and "freeway" and although I can come up ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, A highway is a road that is open to public use by right and ...
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| multiple meanings of "the Stepford wives" | 1/13/2005 |
Q: I am looking for multiple meanings of the term "stepford wives" as it has entered the english ...
A: The original Stepford Wives movie was released several decades ago and depicted (just as the new ...
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| etymology of etymology | 1/9/2005 |
Q: My question for you, as I am writing a paper for school, is what exactly is the etymology of ...
A: The word 'etymology' stems from the Latin word 'etymologia' and the Greek word 'etymon' both meaning ...
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| Words and languages | 11/30/2004 |
Q: What is the role of words and language in religion?
A: I hope that you're having a fine day, My specialty is etymology, the origins of English words ...
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| Translation from English to Latin | 11/29/2004 |
Q: I am wanting to know if you can translate the phrase "to envy" from english into Latin. Thank you so ...
A: I hope you're having a fine evening, My specialty In the future you might try a Latin ...
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| Latin | 11/29/2004 |
Q: There is an expression in latin that basically means "you can't give what you don't have" do you ...
A: I hope you're having a fine day, I'd love to help you but my specialty is etymology , the ...
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| Word meaning | 11/21/2004 |
Q: I was told that de novo meant "renew" or "start afresh." I'm wondering if that's its meaning in ...
A: My specialty is etymology not Latin translations but this one is easy so here goes: Like DE ...
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| etymology | 11/19/2004 |
Q: What is the origin of the word "Soulmate?"
A: The word 'soul' stems from the Old English word ' sawol' meaning the spiritual and emotional part of ...
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| Kudos | 11/13/2004 |
Q: The Greek word kudos (praise, honors) is singular. What is the plural? Thanks much.
A: THis question must have fallen through the cracks because this is the first I have seen it. ...
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| Etymology | 11/12/2004 |
Q: What is the meaning of the word "baleine" or whale in english ? Thanks a lot for your help Josiane
A: The English word 'whale' stems from the Old Saxon word 'hwal' (same meaning) The modern Dutch word ...
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| etymology of | 10/31/2004 |
Q: I will go and ask a Afrikaans website but as far as I could see their is no such a website in ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, This dictionary entry confirms my definition of a 'nuclear ...
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| translation | 10/20/2004 |
Q: Please can you translate the following into latin "revenge is a dish best served cold" thank you ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, This is not a Latin translation page. My specialty is ...
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| English Phrase to Latin | 10/19/2004 |
Q: I was just wondering the Latin form of "Night Heart" as in the a person or being of the night, for a ...
A: I hope you're having a good week, My specialty is English etymology. I think what you're ...
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| meaning / use of word, "sincere" | 10/14/2004 |
Q: This "AllExperts" site is a neat concept to be sure. I have a specific question but permit me to ...
A: I hope you've had a fine week, Most word authorities trace the word 'sincere' to the Latin word ...
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| Latin Translation | 10/11/2004 |
Q: G'Day, I like the popular phraze 'carpe diem' meaning, 'sieze the day'. What I would like to know ...
A: I hope you're having a fine day, My specialty is English etymology, the origins of English ...
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| Deathnell? | 10/6/2004 |
Q: I've heard and used the word 'deathnell' for quite a few years... someone saw that I had used the ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, A 'death knell' ( two words) is an action or event that ...
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| "ouevre" | 10/6/2004 |
Q: I've looked in a few dictionaries and could not find the word "ouevre". I have a vague idea of the ...
A: The word you're looking for is spelled 'oeuvre' and refers to a substantial body of work ...
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| Phrase on my Family Coat of Arms | 9/27/2004 |
Q: On my family Coat of Arms it says "Despuendo Conservabis". Could you please explain to me its ...
A: I hope you have a fine week, I think you need a Latin translator. I'm a volunteer etymologist ...
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| word origin | 9/26/2004 |
Q: Maybe you can help me. I am trying to find out the history of the word FOMITE. I know what it ...
A: Several etymological sources failed to include the word 'fomite' but I discovered this on the ...
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| FARM LAND | 9/26/2004 |
Q: WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THE WORD[ TINEING ]
A: The verb tining (no 'e') is British dialect meaning to become lost. The word 'tine' is Scandinavian ...
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| Latin for "please" | 9/21/2004 |
Q: i wonder if you could be so kind to tell me if there is a word in latin for "please"? as in, Please ...
A: My specialty is etymology, the origins of words and phrases but I'll be happy to help you with your ...
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| Latin translation | 9/20/2004 |
Q: What is the Latin translation for "I shall rise"?
A: Etymology is the study of word and phrase origin but I'll be happy to provide this Latin ...
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| the phrase "runner-up" | 8/30/2004 |
Q: Got to thinking about this during the Olympics. We all know what it means- but how did it come ...
A: As with so many expressions, there are a number of etymologies provided by various sources and the ...
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| What is the origin of galore? | 8/22/2004 |
Q: I've heard stores say they have "bargains galore". Is this word -- galore or gallore -- something ...
A: Good Monday morning, I hope you have a fine week, The word galore, meaning in abundance, ...
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| two words sliced together to make one new word | 8/22/2004 |
Q: What's the name for 2 words that are combined to make one new-fangled one? For ex., Spam. From two ...
A: Good Monday morning and thank you for your question, A conjunction, of course, is formed by ...
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| Word Definition | 8/21/2004 |
Q: I have the definition for a word, but I can't think of the word. The Definiton is: When you realize ...
A: The words that come to mind are 'epiphany' and 'revelation' but my specialty is etymology, the ...
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| excessive tea drinker | 8/21/2004 |
Q: What is the word for an excessive tea drinker? Help! I found it in the dictionary once and now I ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend. My category is etymology; the origins of words and ...
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| Latin to English Translation | 8/20/2004 |
Q: Do you know what "post hoc ergo proctor hoc" means in English?
A: "Post hoc ergo propter hoc " literally means 'After this, therefore because of this." It's used in ...
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| meaning of a word | 8/18/2004 |
Q: could you please advice me on the meaning of the word "Eurella"? I cannot find it in the ...
A: The prefix Eu is the Greek word for well or happy as in 'euphemism', 'euphoria', and 'euphonius' all ...
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| meaning of a phrase | 8/17/2004 |
Q: wat the meaning and origin of the phrase Bed of roses?
A: We can trace the expression 'Bed of roses' back to medeival times when it was not uncommon for ...
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| Etymology of the word "understand" | 8/16/2004 |
Q: What is the etymology of the word "understand"? I have checked several sources, but none are ...
A: Good Monday morning and thank you for your question, I did a search of my sources (Barnhart ...
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| Just a translation | 8/13/2004 |
Q: I am very interested in the Latin language. The structure of the words is really quite beautiful. I ...
A: I think what you're looking for is a Latin translation site. My specialty is etymology, the origins ...
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| Definition | 8/12/2004 |
Q: I've seen (two or three times in many years) the word "dupient," and I saw the word a few months ...
A: Here are the sources we checked for 'dupient': Webster's 3rd International Dictionary ...
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| Pear-shaped | 8/11/2004 |
Q: could you explain the origins of the phrase pear-shaped, used when things have gone wrong - eg. it's ...
A: "It went pear-shaped" is used, in common English jargon, to refer to a project that resulted in ...
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| Word origin | 8/7/2004 |
Q: What is the origin of the word "trophy"? I have checked that it comes from the Greek, but what was ...
A: Music Expert, (Rock? Standards? Rap? Classical? All Categories? I'd love to know ) The English ...
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| Changes in Language Usage | 8/4/2004 |
Q: I am interested in how the words "culture" and "industry" have changed through the centuries. How ...
A: The word 'culture' stems from the French word, same spelling and from the Latin 'cultura' both ...
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| Etymology of "anchor." | 7/20/2004 |
Q: Where did the term "anchor" for a newscaster come from? Who was the firstt, Walter Cronkite? Do they ...
A: The word anchor stems from the Latin 'ancora'and the Greek 'ankyra'. The Middle English 'ancre' ...
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| Meaning of phrase in blues song | 7/19/2004 |
Q: Robert Johnson recorded Walking Blues in 1937-38. In one verse, slightly paraphrased, he says: ...
A: Not one of at least 20 blues/slang sources has any mention of the phrase "She can break in on a ...
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| THE LETTER "X" | 7/14/2004 |
Q: I WAS WONDERING IF THERE WAS ANY BIBLICAL OR PERHAPS HISTORICAL MEANING OR REFERENCE TO THE LETTER ...
A: For hundreds of years X has been used as an abbreviation for Christ, as in Xmas for Christmas but I ...
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| "slang" | 7/4/2004 |
Q: Carol, I was very interested to read your response re the origin of the word 'slang'. As you may be ...
A: This was fascinating reading but really outside the realm of strict etymology. I wish I had the ...
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| derivation of names | 6/30/2004 |
Q: I've heard that the name Nancy, in addition to being a nickname for Ann/Anne, may also be a nickname ...
A: Here is what I find in Andrian Room's superb book, Brewer's names: 1. The name Nancy came to be ...
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| random english-to-latin translations | 6/29/2004 |
Q: ive got an art project coming up, and to make a long story short, id like to include some latin ...
A: I hope you are having a fine week, My specialty is etymology, not Latin translations but I'll give ...
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| Etymology of "religion" | 6/24/2004 |
Q: I read your response to the question about etymology of religion (Nov 03?) and thank you. I have ...
A: The word 'sacrilegious' stems from the Latin word 'sacrilegium' meaning the robbery of temples. ...
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| english to latin phrase | 6/23/2004 |
Q: I am looking for the translation to "struggle and emerge". I am going to get a tattoo of it on my ...
A: My category is etymology, the origins of words and phrases but I'll be happy to help you with your ...
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| etymology - sharpshooter | 6/18/2004 |
Q: It has been suggested that the word sharpshooter is derived from the Sharps rifle (buffalo gun). Any ...
A: The word sharpshooter stems from the Old English (before 830) word 'scharp' appearing in the book ...
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| Meaning of the words curriculum vitae | 6/16/2004 |
Q: can you tell me where the words CURRICULUM VITAE come from (think its latin)and what they mean? ...
A: Curriculum Vitae has the same meaning as 'resume', the information you submit to a potential ...
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| Baseball | 6/5/2004 |
Q: Where did the word Hot Stove Baseball come from? I think I am spelling it correctly. This goes back ...
A: My sources tell me that the term 'hot stove league' first surfaced in the early 1900's and referred ...
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| english to latin | 6/4/2004 |
Q: Carol Could you please write the following in latin for me please..... "Life and Death" "Energy ...
A: I would love to help you but my specialty is etymology; the origin of words and phrases. ...
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| Pro's and Con's | 6/3/2004 |
Q: Where does the saying "pros and cons" come from?
A: The term 'pro's and con's comes from Latin. Pro means for, on behalf of, and contra, shortenend to ...
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| word equivlant | 5/28/2004 |
Q: Im looking for the equivilent word for "le mot juste"... (The most apt word of phrase that you could ...
A: There seems to be no single word which fully conveys 'le mot juste'. In the foreign word and phrase ...
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| Female equivalent of word | 5/27/2004 |
Q: We were wondering if there is a word which is the female equivalent of the French word roue (accent ...
A: I went to several sources for this one and found, as I suspected, that there is really no female ...
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| lexicology/linguistics | 4/20/2004 |
Q: How did the origin of "a band of men" come about, and how long has it been in use? how would I go ...
A: The term band of men signifying a group acting together is believed to stem from the use of a band ...
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| Etymology | 3/26/2004 |
Q: What is the Etymological origin of the word California. I understand much of California's history ...
A: According to Brewer's Names, there are two theories concerning the etymology of California. either ...
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| Dead Cat | 3/24/2004 |
Q: Do you have any idea where the phrase "swing a dead cat" originated? Thanks! Dana
A: Rather perverse, ironic jokes about dead cats surfaced about 20 years ago and for a decade or so ...
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| Etymology of 'Outcast' | 3/18/2004 |
Q: So, "Outcast." Does it come from the idea of casting out someone, or does it come from the Indian ...
A: Outcast stems from the Scandanavian word casten which first appears in a 13th century book called ...
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| Off the chart | 3/18/2004 |
Q: We've discussed this phrase on the wordorigins.org forum and sought the origin without success. ...
A: My best sources assure me that the expression "off the chart' first surfaced in the 1980's and ...
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| LATIN PHRASE | 3/18/2004 |
Q: I need an accurate English translation of the Latin phrase 'Fortis in Fide'. This is a family crest ...
A: For some reason this is the 4th time I've been sent this question but I'm happy to answer it once ...
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| Meaning of Middle Dutch Words (Old Norse) | 3/17/2004 |
Q: I am researching ancestors who lived in Schenectady, NY in the 16th and 17th century. I come across ...
A: your question is fascinating but doesn't fall under my area of expertise. Since much of the ...
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| translation of latin phrase | 3/17/2004 |
Q: Is it possible to translate, into English, the following Latin phrase "fortis in fides" ? It is a ...
A: My specialty is etymology, the origins of English words and phrases but I'll be happy to take a stab ...
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| etymology | 3/14/2004 |
Q: What is the origin of the phrase "brown nose"?
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, The expression "brown nose" is vulgar in origin and ...
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| English to Latin phrase translation | 3/12/2004 |
Q: How would you say "Live the Chip" in Latin?
A: My specialty is etymology, the origins of words and phrases. What you need is a Latin translation ...
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| Baby Names | 3/11/2004 |
Q: Can you tell me the origin and meaning of the name Zarmina. I can't seem to find it anywhere. ...
A: I just sent an answer to this question but a window appeared that read the address was wrong. ...
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| Etymology | 3/10/2004 |
Q: Could you shed light on the etymology of the familiar idiom: Killing two birds with one stone? I ...
A: You have found a Japanese association with the idiom 'killing two birds with one stone'. My sources ...
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| origin of a phrase | 3/9/2004 |
Q: What is the origin of the term "real estate"?
A: In civil law, the word 'real' relates to land as distinuguished from personal property. The term is ...
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| writing | 3/6/2004 |
Q: i am doing a biography on Marilyn Monroe. I need to know what it means when you change your name ...
A: There are several expressions representing name changes. You can take your pick. 'Nom de ...
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| How "jet fighter" became "fighter jet" | 3/5/2004 |
Q: Sometime in the recent past (perhaps during the Bosnian war) the news media started calling small ...
A: interesting question, (Not by any means a formula greeting. I really mean it) Having spent the ...
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| origin of a phrase | 3/4/2004 |
Q: Where does the phrase "I'm dying to know" originate?
A: I hope you've been having a fine week, Much as the terms 'to die for' , 'I'd die for the ...
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| interesting phrase | 3/4/2004 |
Q: My great grandmother used to talk about "lop eared dutchman." She was in her nineties and didn't ...
A: I hope all is well with you, It is the consensus of my most reliable sources that this phrase ...
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| root words | 3/2/2004 |
Q: I need to find the roots for some words. I need to know a good website for finding root words.
A: I hope you're having a fine week, Here is a good website for finding word and phrase origins. ...
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| Latin phrase spoken by Jesus | 3/2/2004 |
Q: I wanted to know how the phrase "I AM" would transelate into latin. Also the phrase, "May I die when ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, Your question is one of language translation and my category ...
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| translate latin phrase to english | 3/1/2004 |
Q: "inhior a omni fututum esse a nullo" I saw this tattooed on someone at my place of buisness and was ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, Unfortunately, this is a language translation question and my ...
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| meaning of word SANDOR | 2/29/2004 |
Q: what is the meaning of word SANDOR?
A: I hope you have a fine week, Sandor is the Hungarian name for Alexander. The name is familiar ...
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| Phrase origin. | 2/28/2004 |
Q: What is the origin of the phrase, "hair of the dog"?
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, Here's what The Facts on File Encyclodpedia of Word and ...
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| Etymology of Dating | 2/28/2004 |
Q: I'm trying to find the etymology of the relationship words: "dating" and "courting." Maybe by ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, The verb 'date' meaning to make an appointment or ...
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| The language of failure | 2/27/2004 |
Q: Carol, I'm interested in exploring the roots of the word "failure". I know that it derives from the ...
A: Eric, and thank you for your question, My sources trace the word failure to falloir, to be ...
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| the word 'Slang' | 2/26/2004 |
Q: I have come accross the word "slang" on a tithe map of 1842, referring to a small parcel of land ...
A: I find many references to slang in conventional and etymological dictionaries but none that comes ...
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| Word meaning | 2/25/2004 |
Q: Is there such a word as QUATERNARY, & if so what is its meaning?
A: Yes, there is a word QUATERNARY and used as a noun, it means a group of four. The adjective ...
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| can you please come up with a word like..... | 2/25/2004 |
Q: Could you please come up with a word like 'portable video' or something like that? may be some idea ...
A: I hope you're having a fine week, I would love to help you but I'm a volunteer etymologist and ...
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| English to Latin translation. | 2/25/2004 |
Q: The word 'adjudicate' in Latin. The Phrase 'Jack for hire' in Latin. The phrase 'button lady' in ...
A: I hope all is well with you, Your request is very interesting but my specialty is etymology the ...
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| At the Crossroads | 2/20/2004 |
Q: Where did this phrase originate? What does it mean metaphorically?
A: I hope you're having fine weekend, Literally,at the crossroads means at a point where two ...
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| Christmas | 12/17/2003 |
Q: I am interested in finding out where the word "Christmas" originated and also the word "mass" in ...
A: The word Christ stems from the Middle and Old English word Crist meaning the anointed one, the ...
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| Chicken | 11/28/2003 |
Q: What is the origins of the "why did the chicken cross the road" phrase? Who started it and why is it ...
A: Nonsense riddles with obvious answers were a big middle-school fad during Prohibition in what were ...
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| Religion | 11/27/2003 |
Q: I would like to know the origins of the word, religion. Thanks!
A: The word religion stems from the Latin word religionem meaning respect for what is sacred, probably ...
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| Derivation of phrase | 10/13/2003 |
Q: I hope you can help me. I need to find out the derivation of the phrase, "mind your p's and q's" ...
A: The expression 'mind you p's and q's , meaning be careful and your words and behavior, dates back ...
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| etymology of word "tarnation" | 9/22/2003 |
Q: What is the etymology of the word "tarnation" as in "what in tarnation?" Is it a melding of "entire ...
A: I hope you're having a fine weekend, In early English, the word 'tarnal' evolved as a ...
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| phrase origin | 7/2/2003 |
Q: Where did the phrase "Cross your fingers" come from?
A: I had a suspicion that the expression 'crossing one's fingers' was rooted in religion and , if we ...
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| My home town was previously... | 6/23/2003 |
Q: My home town was previously a Roman Garrison some 2000 years ago and it was named Coccium. I was ...
A: There seems to be quite a bit of information about Coccium in reference books and on the Internet ...
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| What is the name for the little... | 6/20/2003 |
Q: What is the name for the little plastic thing on the tip of a shoelace? Thanks.
A: I hope you're having a drier weekend where you are than we're having here in the northeast. An ...
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| origin of a phrase | 6/18/2003 |
Q: What is the origin of the phrase "good egg", referring to the character of a person? Thank you!
A: A lot has been written about the origins of the phrase 'a good egg' and I'll touch on a few theories ...
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| root/meaning of word | 6/18/2003 |
Q: My wife and I are looking for the root and meaning of the word "kellick". I have heard the word used ...
A: It's quite possible that the word you're looking for is 'killick'(also spelled kelleg , kellock or ...
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