When writing textbooks about slavery, which words best reflect its cold, hard reality? Some historians are dropping the word slave in favor of terms like enslaved person and captive, arguing that these terms are more accurate. And raising a...
A listener from Abilene, Texas, recounts the incredulous reaction he got when he was in England and asked some burly fellows for a dolly, meaning a wheeled conveyance for moving heavy loads. He asked for a two-wheeler, then a hand truck, and finally...
When it comes to language, a listener from Dallas wants to know, as a fellow Texan might put it, “who’s the decider”? Grant explains that nobody makes the rules about language, and everybody does. For those seeking professional...
Quiz Guys John Chaneski and Greg Pliska lead a couple of rounds of “Chain Reaction,” a word game that’s great for parties and long car rides. Two players try to make a third one guess the word that the other two are thinking of...
Obamanomics n.— «What’s the future for Obamanomics? The stock market’s reaction doesn’t bode well. The Dow has fallen 18 percent since the last trading day of Bush’s term.» —“The market’s harsh verdict on Obamanomics” by...
peedo n.— Note: Usually spelled “pedo” or “paedo.” «The reaction of the community, which labels him a “peedo” (slang for pedophile) and sets fire to his house, is disproportionate to his misguided but...