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

Release Date: May 20, 2025
Host: Merriam-Webster
Episode: Chagrin

Introduction to "Chagrin"

In the May 20, 2025 episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day, the host delves into the nuanced meaning and rich history of the word chagrin. Pronounced as C H A G R I N, this noun encapsulates feelings of frustration or annoyance arising from failure or disappointment.

Definition and Pronunciation

The host begins by clearly articulating the spelling and pronunciation:

"Today's Word is chagrin. Spelled C H A G R I N, chagrin is a noun. It refers to a feeling of frustration or annoyance caused by failure or disappointment."
[00:10]

This precise definition sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the word's usage and origins.

Real-World Usage Example

To contextualize chagrin, the podcast references a sentence from the Los Angeles Times:

"Hundreds of fans decked out in Dodger Blue crammed into Tokyo Haneda Airport's arrival hall, dreaming of pointing at and snapping a photo of the team or their favorite player. To their chagrin, the airport constructed partitions that blocked any view of the squad."
[00:20]

This example vividly illustrates how chagrin conveys the palpable disappointment and frustration experienced by fans thwarted in their enthusiasm.

Clarifying Common Misconceptions

A particularly engaging segment addresses the potential confusion stemming from the word's appearance:

"Despite what its second syllable may lead one to believe, chagrin has nothing to do with grinning or amusement. Quite the opposite, in fact."
[00:40]

This clarification is essential, as it dispels any erroneous associations with happiness or smiling, emphasizing that chagrin embodies distress and disappointment.

Common Phrases and Usage

The host highlights typical phrases where chagrin is employed, reinforcing its common application in everyday language:

"Chagrin, which almost always appears in phrases such as 'to his,' 'her,' or 'their chagrin,' refers to the distress one feels following a humiliation, disappointment, or failure."
[01:00]

This insight helps listeners understand how to naturally incorporate the word into their vocabulary.

Etymology and Historical Context

Delving into the word's origins, the podcast traces chagrin back to its French roots:

"Perhaps unsurprisingly, the word's French ancestor, the adjective 'chagrin,' means sad."
[01:20]

An intriguing twist in the narrative reveals an additional meaning of the noun form in French:

"What may be surprising is that the noun form of the French 'chagrin,' meaning sorrow or grief, can also refer to a rough, untanned leather."
[01:35]

This duality showcases the word's versatility and historical depth.

Further exploration uncovers the Turkish influence:

"It is itself a modification of the Turkish word 'sagri,' meaning leather from the rump of a horse."
[01:50]

This connection illuminates the cross-cultural journey of the word, enriching its etymological tapestry.

Connection to "Shagreen"

Building on the etymological roots, the podcast introduces listeners to a related term:

"This 'chagrin' gave English the word 'shagreen,' which can refer to such leather or to the rough skin of various sharks and rays."
[02:10]

Understanding this derivative term offers a broader perspective on how chagrin has influenced other words within the English language.

Conclusion and Resources

Wrapping up the episode, the host encourages continued exploration of words and their meanings:

"With your word of the day, I'm Peter Sokolowski. Visit merriamwebster.com today for definitions, wordplay, and trending word lookups."
[02:30]

Listeners are reminded of Merriam-Webster's comprehensive resources, fostering an ongoing journey of linguistic discovery.

Key Takeaways

• Definition: Chagrin is a noun denoting frustration or annoyance from failure or disappointment.
• Usage: Commonly appears in phrases like "to her chagrin," highlighting personal distress.
• Etymology: Originates from the French adjective meaning "sad," with additional meanings related to rough leather from Turkish influences.
• Related Terms: Gave rise to the English word shagreen, referring to rough leather or shark skin.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• "To their chagrin, the airport constructed partitions that blocked any view of the squad." — [00:20]
• "Despite what its second syllable may lead one to believe, chagrin has nothing to do with grinning or amusement." — [00:40]
• "This 'chagrin' gave English the word 'shagreen,' which can refer to such leather or to the rough skin of various sharks and rays." — [02:10]

This comprehensive exploration of chagrin in the May 20, 2025 episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day not only defines the term but also enriches the listener's understanding through practical examples and historical context. For those eager to expand their vocabulary and grasp the intricate histories of words, this episode serves as an invaluable resource.