Merriam-Webster’s Word of the Day: "Cajole"

Date: December 2, 2025
Host: Peter Sokolowski

Episode Overview

In this episode, Merriam-Webster’s host Peter Sokolowski introduces the word “cajole” as the Word of the Day. The episode delves into the definition, usage, and fascinating etymological roots of "cajole," highlighting its evolution from French, possible ties to birds, and use in modern English.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

What Does "Cajole" Mean?

• Definition:
  • To use flattery or gentle urging to persuade someone to do something or to give you something.
  • Can also imply deceiving with soothing words or false promises.
• Common Usage:
  • Often appears with "into," as in "cajoled into doing something."

Usage Example

• [00:41] Usage in a Sentence:
  • “I cajoled my father into letting me use the company season tickets, which were supposed to be used for clients but sometimes wound up in my hands.”
    — (from the Rochester Democrat)

Origins & Etymology

• Obscure Roots:
  • “However hard we try, we can’t cajole the full story of the word cajole from the cages of obscurity.” (Peter Sokolowski, 00:52)
• French Connections:
  • Derived from French verb casoler meaning "to give much attention to, to make a fuss over, to flatter or persuade with flattery."
  • Originates further back to Middle French cajoler, meaning "to flatter out of self-interest."
• Bird Connection Theory:
  • Possible links to Middle French cajole (with a “g” rather than “j”), used for the action of a jay or other bird singing.
  • This, in turn, leads back to jol, a word meaning "birdcage" in a dialect of Picardy.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Definition Introduction:

  • “To cajole someone is to use flattery or gentle urging to persuade them to do something or to give you something.” (Peter Sokolowski, 00:09)

• On the Word’s Shrouded Origins:

  • “However hard we try, we can’t cajole the full story of the word cajole from the cages of obscurity.” (Peter Sokolowski, 00:52)

• Bird-Related Etymology:

  • “The next chapter of the word’s history may or may not be for the birds.” (Peter Sokolowski, 01:04)

Timeline of Important Segments

• [00:00] — Introduction and spelling of "cajole"
• [00:09] — Modern definitions and typical use
• [00:41] — Example sentence in context
• [00:52] — Discussion of the word’s obscure etymology
• [01:04] — Possible bird-related origins
• [01:32] — Conclusion and encouragement to visit the website for more

Episode Tone & Style

Peter Sokolowski's delivery is informative yet playful, especially when discussing the mysterious and possibly avian-inspired origins of "cajole." The tone is both authoritative and accessible, inviting language lovers to ponder the whimsical journey of word development.

Final Takeaway

"Cajole" isn’t just about persuasion; its origins take listeners on a flight through French history and possibly even into the world of songbirds. As always, the episode inspires curiosity about language and its unexpected connections.