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

Episode Details

• Title: Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day
• Host: Merriam-Webster
• Episode: Stratagem
• Release Date: March 15, 2025

Introduction to "Stratagem"

In the March 15, 2025 episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day, host Peter Sokolowski delves into the nuanced meaning and rich history of the word "stratagem." This episode serves as an insightful exploration for language enthusiasts and learners seeking to enhance their vocabulary with precise and historically grounded terms.

Definition and Usage

Peter Sokolowski begins by clarifying the pronunciation and part of speech for "stratagem":

• Spelling: S-T-R-A-T-A-G-E-M
• Part of Speech: Noun

A stratagem is defined as:

“a trick or plan for deceiving an enemy or for achieving a goal.” (00:42)

To illustrate its usage, Sokolowski cites a sentence from Liesel Schillinger's New York Times article:

“In one illustration of the mashup of sacred and superstitious, author Tabitha Stanmore describes a trial by combat to win Sherburne Castle. The devious bishop sewed prayers and charms into his fighter's coat to give him an edge. The stratagem was discovered, but the cunning cleric won the castle and kept his mitre.” (00:56)

This example underscores how a stratagem can be an ingenious and sometimes underhanded tactic employed to secure victory or achieve a specific objective.

Historical Context and Etymology

Delving deeper, Sokolowski explores the origins of "stratagem," tracing its linguistic roots back to ancient languages:

“The word stratagem entered English in the 15th century and was originally used in reference to some artifice, such as a military plan or maneuver, that was designed to deceive or outwit the enemy.” (01:10)

He further elaborates on its Greek ancestry:

• Stratogyne – meaning to act as a general.
• Stratagene – derived from stratigos, meaning general.
• Stratos – camp or army.
• Aigein – to lead.

These components collectively emphasize the military connotations of "stratagem," highlighting its foundational ties to leadership and tactical planning.

Sokolowski also contrasts "stratagem" with its related term "strategy," noting:

“Strategos,” an ancestor of "strategy," arrived in English more than a century after "stratagem." (01:50)

This distinction clarifies that while both words are interrelated, "stratagem" specifically pertains to clever schemes within a broader strategic framework.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Wrapping up the exploration, Peter Sokolowski reinforces the significance of understanding such words not merely for their definitions but also for their historical and contextual applications. By dissecting "stratagem," listeners gain a comprehensive view of how language evolves and how words encapsulate complex ideas and strategies.

“That's your word of the day.” (02:10)

Additional Resources

For those interested in further expanding their vocabulary or exploring language intricacies, Merriam-Webster encourages visiting their website:

“Visit merriamwebster.com today for definitions, wordplay and trending word lookups.” (02:14)

This detailed examination of "stratagem" provides listeners with a thorough understanding of the term, blending definition, usage, and historical context into a cohesive and engaging narrative. Whether you're aiming to enrich your vocabulary or simply enjoy the depths of the English language, this episode offers valuable insights into the art of strategic wording.