Merriam-Webster’s Word of the Day – "Canoodle"

Date: February 14, 2026
Host: Peter Sokolowski

Episode Overview

This Valentine’s Day episode of Merriam-Webster’s Word of the Day introduces listeners to the word "canoodle," a verb denoting affectionate and romantic physical behavior. Peter Sokolowski explores its usage, origin, and how it fits playfully into English vocabulary—perfectly themed for the holiday dedicated to love.

Key Discussion Points and Insights

Definition and Usage

• Definition: "Canoodle" (verb) – To hug and kiss someone in a romantic way.
• Usage Example:

  “In one dining room, ruby colored tufted banquettes sit under vintage inspired chandeliers. In a private room, purple colored walls give way to cocktail tables where couples might canoodle sipping martinis.”
  (Dallas Morning, cited by Peter Sokolowski at 00:33)

Etymology and Historical Context

• Uncertain Origins:
  The precise origin of "canoodle" remains unclear.
• Possible Roots:
  • The word may derive from an English dialect noun "canoodle," meaning "donkey," "fool," or "foolish lover."
  • This noun may in turn be an alteration of the word "noodle," once used to describe a foolish person.
  • "Noodle" is likely related to "noddle," an old term for the head.
• Historical Usage:
  • "Canoodle" has been part of the English language since the mid-19th century.
  • It’s most often used in a light-hearted way to describe playful, public displays of affection—especially among lovers who are "head over heels" for each other.

Notable Language and Tone

• The segment reconstructs the playful, romantic associations with the word, fitting for Valentine’s Day.
• Light-hearted and mildly cheeky, consistent with the word’s connotations.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Definition and Usage:
  “To canoodle with someone is to hug and kiss them in a romantic way.”
  — Peter Sokolowski [00:27]

• On Etymology:
  “The origins of the word canoodle are uncertain, but may have their genesis in an English dialect noun ... that may itself be an alteration of the word noodle, used to mean a foolish person.”
  — Peter Sokolowski [00:49]

• On Cultural Context:
  “Since its appearance in the language around the mid 19th century, canoodle [has] been most often used light-heartedly for playful public displays of affection by couples who are head over heels in love.”
  — Peter Sokolowski [01:17]

Important Timestamps

• 00:06 — Introduction to the episode and word of the day.
• 00:27 — Definition and example sentence for "canoodle."
• 00:49 — Exploration of the word’s origins and etymology.
• 01:17 — Discussion of historical and cultural usage.
• 01:42 — Episode outro.

Conclusion

This succinct yet informative episode celebrates the word "canoodle"—a term as playful and affectionate as Valentine’s Day itself. It serves as a delightful linguistic exploration, blending etymology with modern usage and offering listeners a charming addition to their romantic vocabulary.