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

Release Date: July 27, 2025

In the July 27, 2025 episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day, host Peter Sokolowski delves into the intriguing term "brouhaha." This detailed summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key definitions, literary examples, etymological insights, and related vocabulary that enriches our understanding of this vibrant word.

Introduction to "Brouhaha"

Peter Sokolowski opens the episode by presenting "brouhaha" as the word of the day. He pronounces the word and sets the stage for an exploration of its meanings and nuances.

Peter Sokolowski [00:42]: "Brouhaha is a noun. It's a synonym of both the words uproar and hubbub that refers to great excitement or concern about something."

Definition and Meaning

At its core, "brouhaha" is defined as a noun that encapsulates a state of noisy excitement or chaotic uproar. Sokolowski emphasizes its interchangeable use with words like "uproar" and "hubbub," illustrating its flexibility in conveying varying degrees of commotion.

Literary Example

To contextualize "brouhaha," Sokolowski cites a sentence from Alex Ross's article in The New Yorker:

Peter Sokolowski [00:42]: "At night, once the brouhaha had died down, p22 slipped back into the park."

This example demonstrates how "brouhaha" effectively describes a fleeting yet intense period of disturbance, followed by a return to calmness. The reference to p22, a mountain lion, adds a layer of narrative intrigue, showcasing the word's applicability in diverse contexts.

Etymology and Origins

Sokolowski delves into the origins of "brouhaha," tracing its roots to the late 19th century when it was borrowed directly from French into the English language. However, the precise origins beyond this French connection remain somewhat obscure.

Peter Sokolowski [00:42]: "The English language borrowed the word brouhaha directly from French in the late 19th century, but its origins beyond that are uncertain."

This exploration highlights the word's somewhat mysterious lineage, adding to its charm and appeal.

Synonyms and Nuances

Expanding the discussion, Sokolowski introduces several synonyms that share similarities with "brouhaha," including:

• Hubbub
• Willowah
• Hullabaloo
• Bobbery
• Kerfuffle

He notes that these synonyms often carry a judgmental undertone, suggesting that the cause of the commotion may be trivial or not warranting significant concern.

Peter Sokolowski [00:42]: "Many of these, like brouhaha, tend to suggest a certain judgment that the reason for all the foofarrah is a bit silly, or at least not worth getting all worked up about."

For instance, labeling a minor disagreement as a "brouhaha" implies that the fuss is unnecessary, adding a humorous or dismissive twist to the situation.

The Joy of Saying "Brouhaha"

Sokolowski concludes by celebrating the phonetic appeal of "brouhaha" and its synonyms. He acknowledges that part of the word's allure lies in how enjoyable it is to pronounce, making discussions about minor disturbances more engaging.

Peter Sokolowski [00:42]: "What's less arguable is that brouhaha is fun to say, as are many of its synonyms."

This playful aspect encourages speakers to incorporate such colorful terms into their vocabulary, enhancing both their linguistic repertoire and conversational flair.

Conclusion

The episode provides a comprehensive exploration of "brouhaha," seamlessly blending definition, usage, etymology, and related vocabulary. Peter Sokolowski's engaging presentation not only educates listeners about the word's meanings and origins but also celebrates its playful nature, making "brouhaha" a memorable addition to anyone's word of the day.

For more enriching word explorations and linguistic insights, visit merriamwebster.com.