Episode Overview

Theme:
This episode of Merriam-Webster’s Word of the Day, dated October 20, 2025, introduces and explores the word “etymology.” The host, Peter Sokolowski, delves into its meaning, usage, and origins, while also providing helpful tips for distinguishing it from similar words.

Key Discussion Points and Insights

Definition and Usage

• Etymology is defined as “an explanation of a word’s history, that is, where the word came from and how it developed.”
• The episode gives a clear spelling: E T Y M O L O G Y.

Example in Context

• The word is used in a contemporary sentence from Vogue magazine:
  • “We gave ChatGPT information about the etymology of our old surnames and guided it to generate surname options for us that could relate to our heritages and cultures.”
    (00:20)

Etymology of “Etymology”

• The host explains the word’s origins succinctly:
  • “Etymology ultimately comes from the Greek word etymon, meaning literal meaning of a word according to its origin. Etymon in turn, comes from etymos, which means true.”
    (00:40)

Distinguishing from Similar Terms

• Listeners are reminded not to confuse “etymology” with the similarly sounding “entomology”:
  • “Entomon means insect in Greek, and entomology is a branch of zoology that deals with insects.”
    (00:53)

Notable Quotes and Memorable Moments

• On Etymology’s Origin:
  “Etymology ultimately comes from the Greek word etymon, meaning literal meaning of a word according to its origin.”
  — Peter Sokolowski (00:40)

• On Common Mistakes:
  “Be careful not to confuse etymology with the similar sounding entomology.”
  — Peter Sokolowski (00:53)

• Real-World Use:
  “We gave ChatGPT information about the etymology of our old surnames and guided it to generate surname options for us that could relate to our heritages and cultures.”
  — Shelby Wax, as quoted by Peter Sokolowski (00:20)

Timestamps for Important Segments

• 00:00 — Introduction and Spelling of “Etymology”
• 00:20 — Example Sentence and Modern Relevance
• 00:40 — The Etymology of “Etymology”
• 00:53 — Distinguishing “Etymology” and “Entomology”
• 01:05 — Closing Remarks and Resources

Summary and Tone

The episode, hosted in Peter Sokolowski’s approachable and educational tone, offers listeners both clarity and depth. Not only does it define “etymology,” but it also demonstrates everyday usage and highlights the beauty of tracing word origins. Sokolowski’s style is welcoming and informative, inviting word lovers to appreciate the layers and stories behind language.

For more explorations, definitions, and linguistic fun, listeners are encouraged to visit Merriam-Webster’s website.