Yo, listeners! There’s another online-only podcast from “A Way with Words.” This time, Grant answers questions about the word “agio” from a fellow in Kamloops–learn more about that name, too–and he responds to reader mail about the expression...
bullnose tile n.— «Because ceramic tile is often 1/4-inch thick—and sometimes thicker—the transition from tile to the wall surface must be made with trim tiles that have a finished edge on at least one side. These special tiles frequently are...
whoop n.— «Much of the trail has developed a “cupped” condition, with a large berm of soil having built up on the outside edge of the trail. In places, the cupping is quite deep, and the undulations in the trail (known as “whoops” in motorcycle...
invisible primary n.— «Requiring candidates to launch what is effectively a national campaign ensures that only those who have honed their messages in advance will be able to succeed. No longer will candidates have a chance to experiment with...
yonke n.— «Painted in 1977, the mural at one edge of Chicano Park depicts protesters beneath the message “Varrio Si, Yonkes No!” Neighborhood yes, junkyards no.… Yonke, or yonque, is a term for junkyard that is used widely along the border...
sharp n.— «Knowing whether a line move is due to sharp or public action is important. A sharp is a term used to describe those who make a living off of sports betting. They wager large sums of money at numerous books, in hopes of gaining an edge...