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Artwork for Words Unravelled

Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris

Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris
Etymology
Language
English Language
Egg Corns
Malapropisms
Fossil Words
Mondegreens
Nautical Terms
Old English
Contronyms
Language Evolution
Medical Terms
Idioms
Myths About Language
Collective Nouns
Prefixes and Suffixes
Lost Words
Treasure Island
Piracy
Color Terminology

Jess Zafarris and Rob Watts unravel the stories behind everyday words. Want to watch our episodes too? Subscribe to our YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/channel/UC8R3ZnESMdsuTevq4ib9CvA

PublishesWeeklyEpisodes72Founded2 years ago
Number of ListenersCategories
Self-ImprovementEducationSociety & Culture

Listen to this Podcast

Artwork for Words Unravelled

Latest Episodes

Rob and Jess are talking tech! In this episode, they explore the linguistic origins of terms from technology, Sci-fi and the internet.

🧌 Who was the first internet troll?

🤖 What does 'robot' literally mean?

🔫 Does Jedi actually mean something?

⌨️ ... more

Rob and Jess are taking a surgical look at words from the world of medicine.

💊 What is the Nocebo Effect?

🩺 Are doctors named after leeches (or the other way round)?

🚑 What does "ambulance" literally mean?

These questions answered, and many more, ... more

Jess and Rob are exploring the etymological origins of mythical beasts and cryptids.

🐺 What does "Chupacabra" mean?

🦑 Why are we getting the name "Kraken" wrong?

🐉 What animal was the original "dragon"?

These questions answered – and many more bes... more

In this episode, Rob and Jess explore the stories behind a host of common sayings.

🪓 Does anyone actually 'bury the hatchet'?

😈 Was there ever a 'devil's advocate'?

🔫 What is a 'son of a gun'?

🪶 Why would you have a 'feather in your cap'?

... more

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Recent Guests

Joshua Blackburn
Creator of the game League of the Lexicon and the book, The Language-Lover's Lexipedia
Episode: Getting quizzed on the quirks of English (with Joshua Blackburn)
Mignon Fogarty
Author, podcaster, educator, and known as Grammar Girl
Grammar Girl
Episode: Exposing grammar myths and mistakes with Grammar Girl

Hosts

Rob Watts
Host of Words Unravelled and the YouTube channel Rob Words, he brings humor and engaging storytelling about etymology.
Jess Zafarris
Co-host and author of etymology books, she regularly shares insights into the meanings and origins of language.

Reviews

4.9 out of 5 stars from 367 ratings
  • Only Rob, Please!

    I want to like this show more than I do, but I find I can’t listen to it. I love listening to Rob, both on the podcast and his YouTube videos. However, I find the addition of his co-host to ruin the whole thing for me. She sounds like a teenage girl at a girl’s slumber party, prattling and giggling throughout the whole show. I couldn’t tolerate her so I was unfortunately forced to remove this podcast from my list. I’ll keep up with Rob on YouTube—cohost free.

    Apple Podcasts
    2
    BobTheDup
    United Statesa month ago
  • Love the show!

    I look forward to each show and will try to listen to them as soon as they are released. Keep up the great work!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    ESalmon
    United States4 months ago
  • Perfect listening for those spare moments

    My go to podcast for travelling and walking the dog. Very easygoing gentle listening and also quick moving so always something of interest every minute. A genuine dynamic from the hosts shines through. Cannot recommend this podcast or their YouTube channel enough

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Blue Bantam
    United Kingdom4 months ago
  • The best review for the best podcast, as should be.

    They say in the future AI will use data collected on us to deliver us niche targeted custom tailored ads. This is the podcast equivalent to that, in the best possible sense. Ever since I was but a lad I was fascinated by etymology. This podcast is like prying into my bizarre little mind and see what you could find. It was a revelation, possibly a paradigm shift in my life, to find other likeminded people who’re too, fascinated by the world of etymology. I now divide my life into two unequal part... more

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Danny Koles with a K.
    Israel6 months ago
  • Every episode is fascinating!

    Each episode packed full of fascinating linguistic trivia, served up beautifully and engagingly. Wish I could remember it all each time.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    daftapp
    United Kingdom7 months ago

Listeners Say

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

Listeners appreciate the engaging and humorous style of the hosts as they share fascinating stories about words and language origins.
Many listeners find the podcast is perfect for exploring niche interests in linguistics and etymology, making it a highly recommended listen for word enthusiasts.
The podcast is lauded for its educational content that is accessible to a broad audience, making complex topics enjoyable.
Fans express their enjoyment for the camaraderie of the hosts, highlighting the chemistry and banter that adds warmth to each episode.

Chart Rankings

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

Apple Podcasts
#177
South Africa/Society & Culture
Apple Podcasts
#204
Norway/Society & Culture

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Did Shakespeare write all his plays? | THE BARD
Q: So do you think Shakespeare wrote all of his plays?
The hosts discuss their belief that while he likely collaborated with others, he should still receive credit as the main author of the works.

Audience Metrics

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

Listeners per Episode
Gender Skew
Location
Interests
Professions
Age Range
Household Income
Social Media Reach

Frequently Asked Questions About Words Unravelled

What is Words Unravelled about and what kind of topics does it cover?

A focus on the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of words and phrases shapes the content. Episodes often explore idioms, language quirks, and the evolution of terms across various contexts, appealing to those with a fascination for etymology. The hosts balance humor and education, making complex linguistic ideas accessible and engaging, while also sharing personal anecdotes that enhance their dynamic. Unique topics, such as the etymology of names, slang, and cultural expressions, are regularly featured, fostering a lighthearted atmosphere for both casual listeners and language enthusiasts alike.

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How many episodes of Words Unravelled are there?

Words Unravelled launched 2 years ago and published 72 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

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What guests have appeared on Words Unravelled?

Recent guests on Words Unravelled include:

1. Joshua Blackburn
2. Mignon Fogarty

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