Podcast Summary: Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day

Episode Title: apotropaic
Host: Peter Sokolowski
Release Date: May 13, 2025

Introduction

In the May 13th episode of Merriam-Webster's "Word of the Day" podcast, host Peter Sokolowski introduces and delves into the intriguing adjective "apotropaic." This episode offers listeners a comprehensive exploration of the word’s meaning, usage, historical significance, etymology, and its influence on the English language.

Definition and Usage

Peter Sokolowski begins by presenting the word apotropaic, meticulously spelling it out to aid listeners: A-P-O-T-R-O-P-A-I-C (00:41). He defines it as an adjective describing something "designed or intended to avert evil." To illustrate its usage, Sokolowski shares a sentence from the Darby Telegraph:

"Scholars say witches were believed to be attracted to the scent of a human shoe and having entered one, found themselves trapped. Footwear is one of a mind-boggling array of items used in apotropaic magic designed to turn away harm or evil." (00:50)

This example highlights how everyday objects, like footwear, historically served protective purposes against malevolent forces.

Historical Context

The podcast delves into the rich history of apotropaic practices, emphasizing their prevalence across diverse cultures and eras. Sokolowski notes:

"Apotropaic motifs can be found throughout history, from carvings of Greek gorgons to charms worn to repel the evil eye." (01:10)

This statement underscores the widespread and enduring nature of apotropaic symbols and objects in human societies, serving as a testament to the universal desire to safeguard against unseen threats.

Etymology

Exploring the origins of the word, Sokolowski explains that apotropaic is derived from the Greek verb apotropaein, which means "to turn away from or avert." He breaks down the components of the word:

• Apo – meaning "away"
• Trepāin – meaning "to turn" (01:40)

This etymological insight provides listeners with a deeper understanding of the word's construction and its literal implication of turning away evil.

Influence on the English Language

Sokolowski further connects the concept of apotropaic to several English words, illustrating its linguistic legacy. He states:

"The magic of apotropaic doesn't end there. Its influence is evident in many English words including apology, apostrophe, apostle, and apocalypse." (01:50)

This observation reveals how the root concept of averting or turning away permeates various facets of the English lexicon, enriching the language with nuanced meanings and historical depth.

Conclusion

Wrapping up the episode, Peter Sokolowski reiterates the significance of understanding words like apotropaic not just for vocabulary expansion but also for appreciating the cultural and historical narratives they encapsulate. He encourages listeners to incorporate such enriching terms into their daily language to enhance both their communication skills and their connection to linguistic heritage (02:00).

Additional Resources

For listeners eager to explore further, the episode concludes with an invitation to visit Merriam-Webster.com for more definitions, wordplay, and trending word lookups, ensuring continuous engagement with the vibrant world of words (02:07).

Notable Quotes

• Peter Sokolowski [00:41]:
  "Apotropaic is a charming word, and not just because of its cadence. It is a literal descriptor for things believed to protect against evil."

• Peter Sokolowski [01:10]:
  "Apotropaic motifs can be found throughout history, from carvings of Greek gorgons to charms worn to repel the evil eye."

• Peter Sokolowski [01:50]:
  "The magic of apotropaic doesn't end there. Its influence is evident in many English words including apology, apostrophe, apostle, and apocalypse."

This episode of Merriam-Webster's "Word of the Day" not only enriches listeners' vocabularies but also invites them to appreciate the profound connections between language, culture, and history. By unpacking the layers of a single word, Peter Sokolowski exemplifies the depth and intrigue that the study of words can offer.