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

Episode Details

• Title: Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day
• Host: Merriam-Webster
• Episode Title: Opine
• Release Date: January 22, 2025

Introduction

In the January 22, 2025, episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day, the focus is on the verb "opine." Presented by host Peter Sokolowski, the episode delves into the definition, usage, and etymology of the word, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of its application in contemporary language.

Definition of "Opine"

Host Peter Sokolowski begins by introducing the word "opine," clarifying its spelling and grammatical category:

"[Opine] is a verb. To opine is to express an opinion about something." ([00:42])

This succinct definition sets the stage for a deeper exploration of how "opine" fits into everyday conversation and discourse.

Usage in Context

To illustrate the practical application of "opine," Sokolowski references a sentence from Variety by Gair Skadden:

"Entertainment will always be inherently social. This latest age has prompted society to take a page out of video game culture, which has long relied on building a digital community. We text those we care about after a cliffhanger season finale and jump on social media to opine on the latest movie or show, sharing views on the best scenes or even recording oneself watching an intense scene." ([00:42])

This example highlights how "opine" is used to describe the act of sharing opinions, particularly in the context of social media and digital communities.

Distinguishing "Opine" from "Opinion"

A key discussion point in the episode is the relationship between "opine" and the noun "opinion." Listeners are informed that despite their apparent similarity, the two words are not directly related through back formation:

"The word opine is not a back formation of the word opinion, though the two words do share a common ancestry." ([00:42])

Sokolowski explains that both words originated from the Latin verb opināre, meaning "to have in mind" or "to think." However, "opinion" entered the English language in the 14th century, while "opine" followed approximately a century later, each taking distinct developmental paths from their shared root.

Etymology of "Opine"

Diving deeper into the word's origins, the episode traces "opine" back to its Latin roots:

"In the Latin verb opinare, meaning to have in mind or to think." ([00:42])

This etymological insight underscores the intellectual foundation of the word, emphasizing its connection to thought and expression.

Furthermore, Sokolowski contrasts "opine" with back-formed verbs, using "bartend" from "bartender" as an example:

"A back formation is a word formed by the subtraction of part of an existing word. For instance, the verb bartend is a back formation of the noun bartender." ([00:42])

By clarifying that "opine" did not arise through this process, the host reinforces its independent linguistic trajectory.

Contemporary Relevance

The discussion extends to the modern relevance of "opine," particularly in the age of digital communication. Sokolowski notes how social media platforms have become arenas for expressing opinions, effectively making "opine" a term that encapsulates this behavioral trend.

"For posting on social media, we're not opining, that is, expressing our opinion when we say that." ([00:42])

This distinction emphasizes the precise usage of "opine" in formal contexts, differentiating it from casual expressions of opinion common in everyday interactions.

Conclusion

Wrapping up the episode, Peter Sokolowski reinforces the day's lesson on "opine," encouraging listeners to incorporate the word into their vocabulary to enhance their expressive capabilities. The detailed exploration of its meaning, usage, and origins provides a thorough understanding, aligning with Merriam-Webster's mission to empower listeners with rich word knowledge.

Listeners are invited to further explore definitions, wordplay, and trending topics by visiting Merriam-Webster's website.

Notable Quotes

• Peter Sokolowski ([00:42]): "Opine is a verb. To opine is to express an opinion about something."
• Peter Sokolowski ([00:42]): "The word opine is not a back formation of the word opinion, though the two words do share a common ancestry."
• Peter Sokolowski ([00:42]): "In the Latin verb opinare, meaning to have in mind or to think."

Key Takeaways

• Definition: "Opine" means to express an opinion about something.
• Usage: Commonly used in formal contexts to denote the act of voicing one's thoughts or judgments.
• Etymology: Derived from the Latin opināre, unrelated to "opinion" through back formation.
• Modern Relevance: Particularly pertinent in the context of social media and digital discourse.

This episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day not only enriches the listener's vocabulary but also provides valuable insights into the nuanced usage and background of the word "opine."