Podcast Summary: Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day – "Tantalize"
Episode Overview Released on July 15, 2025, Merriam-Webster's "Word of the Day" podcast offers listeners a daily enhancement of their vocabulary, guided by Merriam-Webster's experts. In this episode, hosted by Peter Sokolowski, the word of the day is "tantalize." The podcast delves into the definition, usage, and etymology of the word, enriching listeners' understanding through engaging examples and historical context.
Introduction to "Tantalize"
At the outset of the episode, Peter Sokolowski introduces the word of the day:
"Today's word is tantalize, spelled T A N T A L I Z E."
[00:15]
He defines "tantalize" as a verb:
"To tantalize someone is to cause them to feel interest or excitement about something that is very attractive or appealing."
[00:22]
Usage in Contemporary Context
To illustrate the practical application of "tantalize," Sokolowski provides a contemporary example from Chester County:
"Craving a culinary adventure? Look no further than Manila Street Treats. Nestled within the vibrant Tapatio Produce International Market and Shops building in Elkton, this hidden gem offers a diverse menu of Filipino and International flavors that will tantalize your taste buds."
[00:35]
This example showcases how "tantalize" can be used to describe enticing experiences, in this case, a diverse and appealing culinary offering.
Historical and Mythological Context
Sokolowski enriches the discussion by tracing the origins of "tantalize" back to Greek mythology, specifically the story of King Tantalus:
"Pity Poor King Tantalus of Lydia, the mythic monarch offended the ancient Greek gods and was sentenced, according to Homer's Odyssey, to suffer in Hades the following: to stand neck deep in water beneath overhanging boughs of a tree, heavily laden with ripe, juicy fruit. But though he was always hungry and thirsty, Tantalus could neither drink the water nor eat the fruit. Any time he moved to get them, they would retreat from his reach."
[00:50]
This narrative explains the etymological roots of "tantalize," highlighting how the term embodies the essence of being tantalized—desiring something just out of reach.
Conclusion and Further Resources
Concluding the episode, Sokolowski reiterates the origin of the word and directs listeners to additional resources:
"Our word tantalize is taken from the name of the eternally tormented king with your word of the day. I'm Peter Sokolowski. Visit Merriam Webster.com today for definitions, wordplay and trending word lookups."
[01:10]
This invitation encourages listeners to further engage with language and expand their vocabulary through Merriam-Webster's comprehensive offerings.
Key Takeaways
- Definition: "Tantalize" means to excite or arouse interest in something appealing.
- Usage Example: Describing a restaurant's enticing menu.
- Etymology: Derived from King Tantalus' eternal torment in Greek mythology, symbolizing unattainable desires.
- Resource: Merriam-Webster.com for more linguistic exploration.
Notable Quotes
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"To tantalize someone is to cause them to feel interest or excitement about something that is very attractive or appealing."
— Peter Sokolowski [00:22] -
"The term embodies the essence of being tantalized—desiring something just out of reach."
— Narrator [paraphrased]
This episode of Merriam-Webster's "Word of the Day" effectively combines linguistic education with cultural and historical insights, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the word "tantalize." Whether you're looking to enhance your vocabulary or appreciate the depth of language origins, this podcast episode serves as a valuable resource.