Andrew from Annandale, Virginia, asks about the origin of the word boondoggle. Why does it mean a wasteful project or plain old busywork, but also denotes a kind of leathercraft lanyard made at camp? This is part of a complete episode. Transcript of...
Quiz Guy John Chaneski has a game of phrases involving the letter B. This is part of a complete episode. Transcript of “Quiz with the Letter “B”” You’re listening to A Way with Words. I’m Martha Barnette. And...
When it comes to language, who’s the decider? Grant explains how grammar rules develop. Also, what’s tarantula juice, and what’s the difference between a muffin top and a smiley? We discuss these and other terms from Green’s...
gravy plane n. a boondoggle, junket, or other (perceived) waste of money associated with air travel, benefitting a privileged group or person. Etymological Note: Frequently coined anew as a play on “gravy train,” a desirable situation or...
