Podcast Summary: Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day – "Jeopardize"
Release Date: June 18, 2025
Introduction
In the episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day released on June 18, 2025, hosted by Peter Sokolowski, the focus is on the word "jeopardize." This episode delves into the definition, usage, historical context, and evolution of the term, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of its significance in the English language.
Definition and Pronunciation
The podcast begins by introducing the word "jeopardize," correctly spelled as J-E-O-P-A-R-D-I-Z-E. It is identified as a verb with the following definition:
- To jeopardize something or someone is to put them at risk or in danger.
Quote:
"A: ...Today's Word is jeopardize. Spelled J E O P A R D I Z E. Jeopardize is a verb. To jeopardize something or someone is to put them at risk or in danger."
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Usage Example
To illustrate the application of "jeopardize" in real-life contexts, the host provides a sentence sourced from the Los Angeles Times:
Quote:
"...to keep the cub from forming bonds with people that would jeopardize his return to the wild. Staff members charged with his care are dressing up in bear costumes, including a mask, fur coat and leather gloves."
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This example underscores how the word can be used to describe actions that might endanger an animal’s ability to thrive in its natural habitat.
Engaging the Audience
The podcast engages listeners with an interactive segment, presenting a hypothetical game show scenario:
Quote:
"...Imagine you're a contestant on a game show and your task is to provide a question as a response to this statement from the host."
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This segment encourages listeners to think critically about the word's usage and application in different contexts.
Historical Context and Controversy
"Jeopardize" has not always been universally accepted. The podcast delves into its historical controversy:
Quote:
"This word was once controversial, and in 1870 a grammarian called it a foolish and intolerable word, a view shared by many 19th century critics."
(00:07)
Additionally, the host explains the preference for the archaic term "jeopard" in earlier English usage:
Quote:
"The preferred word back then was jeopard, which first appeared in print in the 14th century. The upstart jeopardize didn't arrive until the late 16th century and took a while to catch on."
(00:07)
Noah Webster's stance on the matter is also highlighted:
Quote:
"In 1828, Noah Webster himself declared jeopardize to be a modern word used by respectable writers in America but synonymous with jeppard and therefore useless."
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Evolution to Modern Usage
Despite early resistance, "jeopardize" gained traction over time, leading to the decline of "jeopard":
Quote:
"Unfortunately for the champions of the word jeopard, increased usage of jeopardize ultimately put the former word in jeopardy. Jeopard is now only rarely heard."
(00:07)
This evolution illustrates the dynamic nature of language and how certain words become standardized despite initial opposition.
Conclusion
The episode wraps up by reinforcing the significance of understanding word histories and their current applications. Listeners are encouraged to explore more linguistic insights:
Quote:
"With your Word of the Day, I'm Peter Sokolowski. Visit Merriam Webster.com today for definitions, wordplay and trending word lookups."
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Key Takeaways
- "Jeopardize" is a verb meaning to put someone or something at risk.
- The word has a contentious history, initially facing criticism and preference for the older term "jeopard."
- Over time, "jeopardize" became widely accepted, overshadowing "jeopard."
- Understanding the historical context of words enriches our appreciation and usage of the English language.
This episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day offers listeners not only a clear definition of "jeopardize" but also a fascinating glimpse into its linguistic journey and current relevance.
