Episode Overview
Podcast: Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day
Date: May 23, 2026
Episode Theme: The episode centers around the word "expedite," offering listeners an engaging exploration of its meaning, usage, etymology, and related expressions.
Key Discussion Points & Insights
1. Word Introduction and Definition
- [00:27] The word of the day is expedite (spelled E-X-P-E-D-I-T-E), which is identified as a verb.
- Definition: "To expedite something is to cause it to happen faster."
2. Example in Context
- Usage Sample:
- From nola.com:
"The new task force is required to submit an initial report in 60 days and final report in 90 days, with recommendations to simplify, improve and expedite hiring."
- Insight: The example showcases "expedite" in an official and practical setting, emphasizing its application to processes like hiring.
3. Synonyms and Common Expressions
- [00:48] Host draws parallels to common expressions for urgency:
- "Need someone to do something in a hurry? You can tell that person to step on it, or you can tell them to expedite it. Figurative feet are involved in both cases, though less obviously in the second choice."
4. Etymology and Related Words
- [00:59] The origin is discussed in detail:
- "Expedite comes from the Latin verb expedire, meaning to free from entanglement or difficulty."
- The host explains the connection to feet: "The feet come in at the word's root. It traces back to the Latin ped, p-e-d, or pes, meaning foot — expedient and expedition also stepped into English by way of expedire."
- Expands the listener’s understanding by linking "expedite" to familiar words like "expedient" and "expedition."
Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments
- Definition and Usage:
- Peter Sokolowski ([00:27]):
"To expedite something is to cause it to happen faster."
- Etymology:
- Peter Sokolowski ([00:59]):
"Expedite comes from the Latin verb expedire, meaning to free from entanglement or difficulty. The feet come in at the word's root. It traces back to the Latin ped, p-e-d, or pes, meaning foot..."
- Fun Fact/Comparison:
- Peter Sokolowski ([00:48]):
"Need someone to do something in a hurry? You can tell that person to step on it, or you can tell them to expedite it. Figurative feet are involved in both cases, though less obviously in the second choice."
Important Segment Timestamps
- [00:27] — Introduction of the word "expedite," spelling, and definition
- [00:34] — Example sentence from nola.com
- [00:48] — Comparison to common expressions and figurative meaning
- [00:59] — Etymology of "expedite" and related words
Additional Resources
- [01:35] — Listeners are encouraged to visit merriamwebster.com for more definitions, wordplay, and trending topics (end of content)
Tone and Style
The host, Peter Sokolowski, maintains an informative and accessible tone, blending scholarly insight with friendly, relatable commentary. The word’s history and usage are clearly explained, making even etymology feel lively and relevant.
This concise yet comprehensive summary captures all essential takeaways from the episode, organized for easy reference and a deeper understanding of "expedite."
