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

Release Date: May 1, 2025
Host: Merriam-Webster (Peter Sokolowski)

Introduction to the Word of the Day

In the May 1st episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day, host Peter Sokolowski introduces the term "convoluted" (C-O-N-V-O-L-U-T-E-D). This adjective is used to describe something that is very complicated and difficult to understand, or something that features many curves and turns.

Quote:
“Today's word is convoluted, spelled C O N V O L U T E D. Convoluted is an adjective. Something described as convoluted is very complicated and difficult to understand, or has many curves and turns.”
— Peter Sokolowski [00:06]

Usage Example

To illustrate the usage of "convoluted," the podcast references a sentence from Sloan Cronkon Crosley featured on lithub.com. The example highlights how the word can describe complex interpersonal interactions.

Quote:
“The publishing house had recently declined to publish my new book, and one of their editors appeared in my inbox asking for a blurb for an upcoming title. Because this felt awkward, I made a convoluted show of declining so convoluted that my reply left several avenues for them to come back and ask again."
— Sloan Cronkon Crosley [00:30]

This example underscores how "convoluted" can depict situations that are not straightforward, emphasizing the complexity in communication and decision-making processes.

Understanding "Convoluted"

Peter delves deeper into the emotional and cognitive impact of something being convoluted. He likens the experience to "your brain twisting itself into a pretzel," making it relatable for listeners who have encountered overly complex arguments or narratives.

Quote:
“If you've ever felt your brain twisting itself into a pretzel while trying to follow a complicated or hard to follow line of reasoning, you'll appreciate the relative simplicity of the adjective convoluted, which is perfect for describing head scratchers and pretzel makers.”
— Peter Sokolowski [01:10]

This vivid metaphor helps listeners grasp the frustration and mental effort required to navigate convoluted content.

Etymology and Evolution

The podcast explores the origins of "convoluted," tracing it back to the Latin verb "convolvere," which means “to roll up, coil, or twist.” Initially, the term was used to describe literal twists and coils, such as those found in intestines or a ram's horns.

Over time, the meaning of "convoluted" expanded metaphorically to describe abstract concepts like arguments, plots, stories, or logic that are intricate and filled with twists and turns, making them difficult to comprehend.

Quote:
“Convoluted traces back to the Latin verb convolvere, meaning to roll up, coil, or twist. Originally convoluted, like its predecessor in English, the verb convolute was used in the context of things literal convolutions in other words, twisty things like intestines or a ram's horns. Over time, it expanded to figuratively describe things like arguments, plots, stories, or logic that are intricate or feature many twists and turns that make them difficult to understand.”
— Peter Sokolowski [01:45]

This historical perspective highlights the linguistic evolution of "convoluted" from a physical description to a metaphorical one, broadening its application in everyday language.

Conclusion and Additional Resources

Wrapping up the episode, Peter encourages listeners to visit merriamwebster.com for more resources, including definitions, wordplay, and trending word lookups. He reiterates the value of expanding one's vocabulary through daily engagements with words like "convoluted."

Quote:
“With your word of the day, I'm Peter Sokolowski. Visit merriamwebster.com today for definitions, wordplay and trending word lookups.”
— Peter Sokolowski [02:15]

Listeners are left with a comprehensive understanding of "convoluted," its usage, emotional resonance, and historical roots, equipping them to incorporate the word effectively into their vocabulary.

This detailed exploration of "convoluted" not only defines the term but also provides real-world context and historical background, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their language skills.