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

Episode: Sanguine
Date: September 8, 2025
Host: Peter Sokolowski
Podcast: Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day

Main Theme

The episode centers on the word "sanguine", delving into its meanings, origins, and usage in modern English. Host Peter Sokolowski provides both linguistic background and historical context, making the word accessible and interesting for listeners eager to expand their vocabulary.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Definition and Usage (00:44)

• "Sanguine" is presented as an adjective, primarily used today to describe someone who is confident and hopeful, or something that demonstrates these qualities.
• Secondary meanings include:
  • Blood red in color
  • Related to bloodshed
  • A person's reddish complexion

Quote:
"It's a formal word that today almost always describes someone who is confident and hopeful, or something that shows confidence and hopefulness."
— Peter Sokolowski [00:44]

2. Example in Context (00:56)

• The host provides a contemporary example:
  • "David Corenswet is remarkably sanguine about a film that has been the subject of immense scrutiny. The trailer is the most watched in the history of either D.C. or Warner Bros. Though he may not want the burden of Superman's success or failure on his—yes, broad—shoulders, it will land there anyway."

Quote:
"If you're the sort of cheery, confident soul who always looks on the bright side no matter what happens, you may be described as sanguine."
— Peter Sokolowski [01:19]

3. Etymology and Historical Context (01:31)

• Origin: The word traces back to the Latin noun "sanguis" meaning "blood".
• Evolution: Over centuries, its meaning expanded from "bloodthirsty" and "blood red" to its modern, cheerful interpretation.
• Humors Theory: In the Middle Ages, it was believed that temperaments were governed by bodily fluids or "humors":
  • Phlegm
  • Black bile
  • Yellow bile
  • Blood
• Those dominated by "blood" were considered strong, confident, and healthy (with a reddish glow), and hence labelled "sanguine".

Quote:
"During the Middle Ages, health and temperament were believed to be governed by the balance of different liquids or humors in one's body: phlegm, black bile, yellow bile, and blood. Those lucky people who were governed by blood were strong, confident, and even had a healthy reddish glow."
— Peter Sokolowski [01:43]

4. Modern Usage (02:27)

• Even though the humors theory is obsolete, “sanguine” stands as a word for someone with a cheery, optimistic disposition.

Quote:
"In time, the physiological theory behind the humors was displaced by scientific medicine, but the word sanguine is still commonly used to describe those who are cheerfully confident."
— Peter Sokolowski [02:27]

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• "It's a formal word that today almost always describes someone who is confident and hopeful." (Peter Sokolowski, 00:44)
• "If you're the sort of cheery, confident soul who always looks on the bright side no matter what happens, you may be described as sanguine." (Peter Sokolowski, 01:19)
• "Those lucky people who were governed by blood were strong, confident, and even had a healthy reddish glow. All that blood, you know—they were, in a word, sanguine." (Peter Sokolowski, 01:50)

Timestamps for Important Segments

• 00:44 – Word pronunciation, spelling, core definitions, and contemporary usage
• 00:56 – Example sentence and discussion of application
• 01:31 – Etymology and historical context: the four humors and blood
• 02:27 – Reflection on modern meaning versus historical science

Final Thoughts

This episode offers a concise yet thorough exploration of "sanguine," blending linguistic nuance with cultural history. As always, the tone remains friendly, educational, and encouraging for listeners looking to enrich their vocabulary. The host’s explanations and engaging storytelling make even the historic aspects memorable.

For more words and etymological insights, visit Merriam-Webster.com.