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

Episode Details

• Title: Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day
• Host: Peter Sokolowski
• Episode: Tome
• Release Date: January 6, 2025

Introduction to "Tome"

In the January 6th episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day, host Peter Sokolowski introduces the word "tome." Pronounced T-O-me, "tome" is a noun that refers to a book, particularly one that is large, thick, and scholarly in nature.

"[...] Today's Word is Tome, spelled T O M e. Tome is a noun. It's a formal word for a book, and especially a very large, thick, often scholarly book."
— Peter Sokolowski [00:06]

Usage and Example

Sokolowski provides a contemporary example of "tome" in literature, illustrating its application in modern contexts. He cites a sentence from Hypebeast Magazine, authored by Sarah Currens, which showcases the term's relevance in describing substantial literary works.

"Here's the word used in a sentence from Hypebeast magazine by Sarah Currens: 'The way that we've approached publishing at Climax is almost having these two very separate worlds that live perfectly together,' Isabella Burleigh says of her business's work in both the archival and contemporary worlds. Climax returned with its second title earlier this month, a 550-page tome surveying 10 years of images produced between 2014 and 2024 by artist Martine Sims, whose work examines themes of identity, gender, and black culture."
— Peter Sokolowski [00:20]

This example not only demonstrates the use of "tome" but also encapsulates the essence of what qualifies a book as a tome—its comprehensive coverage and substantial length.

Etymology and Historical Context

Delving into the history of "tome," Sokolowski traces its origins back to ancient Greek. The term "tome" derives from "tomos," a Greek noun meaning "section" or "roll of papyrus." This, in turn, originates from the verb "temnein," meaning "to cut."

"When 'tome' was first used in English, it referred to a book that was part of a larger multi-volume work, which makes sense given that it comes from 'tomos,' a Greek noun meaning section or roll of papyrus. That comes in turn from the verb 'temnein,' meaning to cut."
— Peter Sokolowski [00:45]

In ancient times, long scrolls made of papyrus were often divided into sections, aligning with the original meaning of "tome" as a segment of a larger work.

Modern Connotations and Usage

Today, "tome" retains its association with size and scholarly depth but has evolved to often simply denote a large and serious book. Common adjectives that precede "tome" include weighty, lengthy, massive, heavy, hefty, and academic, reinforcing its connotation as a substantial literary work.

"When 'tome' retains this meaning today, it usually refers instead to a book that is larger and more scholarly than average, as evidenced by some of the most common adjectives that precede it, including weighty, lengthy, massive, heavy, hefty, and academic."
— Peter Sokolowski [01:10]

This modern usage signifies not just physical size but also the depth and complexity of the content within such books.

Conclusion and Further Resources

Wrapping up the episode, Peter Sokolowski encourages listeners to expand their vocabulary and explore more words by visiting the Merriam-Webster website.

"With your word of the day, I'm Peter Sokolowski. Visit Merriam Webster.com today for definitions, wordplay and trending word lookups."
— Peter Sokolowski [01:30]

Listeners are invited to engage further with Merriam-Webster's resources to enhance their understanding and use of the English language.

Key Takeaways:

• "Tome" refers to a large, thick, and often scholarly book.
• Originates from the Greek "tomos," meaning section or roll of papyrus.
• Commonly used adjectives include weighty, lengthy, and academic.
• Example from Hypebeast Magazine demonstrates its application in modern contexts.

For those looking to enrich their vocabulary and delve deeper into the meanings and usages of words, Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day is an invaluable daily resource.