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Artwork for A Way with Words

A Way with Words - language, linguistics, and callers from all over

Martha Barnette and Grant Barrett. Produced by Stefanie Levine.
Language
Regional Dialects
Cultural Expressions
Idioms
Language Evolution
Pangrams
Regional Expressions
Language Slang
Etymology
Culinary Expressions
Nautical Terminology
Middle School Transition Anxiety
Food Language
Expressions
Expressions Like 'go Fry Ice'
Idiom Discussions
Book Moth
Bookworm
Event Vs Eventful
Satsuma Orange

Fun conversation with callers from all over about new words, old sayings, slang, family expressions, word histories, linguistics, dialects, word games, books, literature, writing, and more. Be on the show with author/journalist Martha Barnette and linguist/lexicographer Grant Barrett. Share your thoughts, questions, and stories: waywordradio.org/contact or words@waywordradio.org. In the US... more

PublishesWeeklyEpisodes799Founded20 years ago
Number of ListenersCategories
Language LearningEducationSociety & Culture

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Artwork for A Way with Words

Latest Episodes

Centuries ago, monks who took a vow of silence developed their own hand signs, with hundreds of gestures, that are still in use today. Plus, how do speakers of different languages distinguish similar shades and tints of colors such as red, yellow, an... more

In this bonus A Way with Words minicast, Martha and Grant explore the ways foreign place names transform on official maps and in local slang. Discover the stories behind names like “Picketwire” and “Key West,” showing how history and mishearings resh... more

YouTube

A sumptuous new collection of poems about specific photographs shows how the moment in time captured by camera can inspire a verbal work of art as well. Also, why do we say that a quarterback got sacked? Plus, If you’re planning to vacation at a text... more

YouTube

Eels, orts, and Wordle! Sweden awarded its most prestigious literary award to a book about . . . eels. The Book of Eels reveals the mysterious life cycle of this sea creature and its significance for famous figures from Aristotle to Sigmund Freud. ... more

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Recent Guests

Tory Paulson
Resident of Wyoming
Episode: Sour Pickle (Rebroadcast) - 23 June 2025
Chris Mershrod
Caller from Ithaca, New York
Episode: Sour Pickle (Rebroadcast) - 23 June 2025
Orianna Fisher
Biochemistry professor
Episode: Sour Pickle (Rebroadcast) - 23 June 2025
Logan Weber
Caller from Greenville, North Carolina discussing the phrase 'Scooter Poot'.
Episode: Scooter Pooting (Rebroadcast) - 26 May 2025
Terry Wilson
Caller from Bowling Green, Kentucky asking about a regional term 'Devil Strip'.
Episode: Scooter Pooting (Rebroadcast) - 26 May 2025
Dawn Davis
Caller from Evansville, Indiana discussing the expression 'Fiddlesticks'.
Episode: Scooter Pooting (Rebroadcast) - 26 May 2025
Rosalyn Maxwell
Caller from Montgomery, Alabama
Episode: Honor Bright - 5 May 2025
Jason Meyer
Caller from Hickory, North Carolina
Episode: Honor Bright - 5 May 2025
Tenley Thompson
Outdoor enthusiast from Jackson, Wyoming
Episode: Lead on Macduff (Rebroadcast) - 17 February 2025

Hosts

Grant Barrett
Co-host of a show focusing on language, linguistics and word history, known for his engaging storytelling and insightful commentary.
Martha Barnette
Co-host of a show focusing on language, linguistics and word history, recognized for her warmth and engaging interaction with callers.

Reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars from 2.9k ratings
  • Dynamic Duo

    Silver tongue and quick on their feet.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    dwchandl
    United States3 months ago
  • Love this show!

    I stumbled upon this show one weekend while I was listening to NPR and now I’m hooked. I have always been a fan of languages, but I’ve honestly never thought about linguistics as much, or the history behind it. This is a truly fascinating and fun show. I especially enjoy listeners calling in with their stories of different expressions. I’ve learned so much from this show in the past few months. Thank you!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Baggin Saggin Mary
    United States4 months ago
  • Excellent but Grant must lose that annoying vocal fry, especially at end of calls!

    Podcast Addict
    5
    Boo2009
    6 months ago
  • Never bored with rebroadcasts

    Learn and relearn new things each time your consistent politeness and interest in guests is downright pleasant. Considering this is all own your own time, bless you.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Alohahaunama
    United States7 months ago
  • Epic

    The best ever this is how many stars I would give it. ps spot the difference . ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    ThebombRonaldo#CR7
    United States7 months ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Some listeners have expressed a desire for more original content rather than rebroadcasts, indicating a hunger for continuous learning.
Listeners appreciate the engaging and interactive nature of the show with a community feel.
The hosts are recognized for their warm personalities and deep knowledge of language, fostering an atmosphere of curiosity and exploration.
Many enjoy the personal anecdotes shared by callers, which enrich the conversation and add relatable depth.
Reviews highlight the value of learning about language evolution through entertaining discussions.

Chart Rankings

How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

No Bones - 17 November 2025
Q: What does it mean when someone says, 'make no bones about it'?
The phrase means to speak or act forthrightly or without hesitation, indicating sincerity.
No Bones - 17 November 2025
Q: What is the origin of the phrase 'Kelly Day'?
A listener asked about the origin of Kelly Day, which is generally believed to be linked to a Chicago mayor, Edward Joseph Kelly, in the 1930s, who put a schedule in place for firefighters.
No Bones - 17 November 2025
Q: What are some words you can use to describe someone who is between a friend and an acquaintance?
A listener suggested the term 'friendlies,' which successfully conveyed the concept of a friendly acquaintance without being too clunky.
East Overshoe (Rebroadcast) - 10 November 2025
Q: How does somebody reacquire their accent?
By regularly visiting their home region or listening to regional accents online.
East Overshoe (Rebroadcast) - 10 November 2025
Q: Were you married to someone who used a unique form of speech?
Yes, my girlfriend uses 'pine shadows' instead of 'pine needles.'

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

Listeners per Episode
Gender Skew
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Interests
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Frequently Asked Questions About A Way with Words

What is A Way with Words about and what kind of topics does it cover?

This lively and entertaining show engages listeners in explorations of language, featuring discussions on everything from modern slang to historical expressions and dialects. Callers share personal anecdotes and regional phrases, contributing to a rich tapestry of linguistic insights. The hosts, both knowledgeable and warm, create a welcoming atmosphere where language lovers can delve into the quirks and intricacies of English and its many flavors around the world. Each episode boasts a mix of humor, thoughtful exploration, and interactive caller participation, making it a unique space for learning and connection through language.

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How many listeners does A Way with Words get?

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How many subscribers and views does A Way with Words have?

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Which podcasts are similar to A Way with Words?

These podcasts share a similar audience with A Way with Words:

1. Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!
2. Science Friday
3. How To Do Everything
4. Fresh Air
5. Radiolab

How many episodes of A Way with Words are there?

A Way with Words launched 20 years ago and published 799 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

How do I contact A Way with Words?

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What guests have appeared on A Way with Words?

Recent guests on A Way with Words include:

1. Tory Paulson
2. Chris Mershrod
3. Orianna Fisher
4. Logan Weber
5. Terry Wilson
6. Dawn Davis
7. Rosalyn Maxwell
8. Jason Meyer

To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.

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