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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
Linguistics
Medical Terms
Idioms
Myths About Language
Collective Nouns
Prefixes and Suffixes
Lost Words
Treasure Island
Piracy
Color Terminology
Demonyms

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

PublishesWeeklyEpisodes60Founded2 years ago
Number of ListenersCategories
Self-ImprovementEducationSociety & Culture

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Artwork for Words Unravelled

Latest Episodes

In this episode, Jess and Rob 'spill the beans' about all manner of food-related idioms.

🍌 Why does 'going bananas' mean going mad?

☕️ Who is the Joe in a 'cup of Joe'?

🍏 What did we compare apples to before oranges?

🧅 What does it really me... more

YouTube

In this episode, Rob and Jess take a right royal romp through the etymologies of eminent titles. They discuss the origins of words like "lord", "emperor", "queen" and a whole host of others:

🏛️ How did Caesar become a title all over Europe?

𓁏 W... more

YouTube

We’re digging into prehistoric word origins. In this episode, Jess and Rob unearth the literal meanings behind the names of the dinosaurs.

🦖 What does Tyrannosaurus rex really mean?

🦕 Why is Stegosaurus called the “roof lizard”?

🐦 Are dinosau... more

We're taking a world tour of word origins. In this episode, Jess and Rob discuss how a multitude of countries got their names.

🇺🇸 Where was the original "America"?

🇬🇧 Why is Britain called "Great"?

🇨🇦 What does "Canada" mean?

🇩🇪 Why do ... more

YouTube

Key Facts

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Find out how many people listen to this podcast per episode and each month.

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Recent Guests

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 from the YouTube channel Rob Words and co-host of Words Unravelled, engaging in discussions about etymology and language.
Jess Zafarris
Co-host and author, known for her work in etymology and entertaining discussions alongside Rob Watts.

Reviews

4.9 out of 5 stars from 305 ratings
  • 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 Statesa month 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 Kingdoma month 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.
    Israel3 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 Kingdom4 months ago
  • Possibly the perfect podcast for my niche interests

    Exactly what my linguistics nerd self needs in a podcast! I recommend this show to everyone I know who’s into words. I love learning about word origins, but my favorite thing is actually when they debunk folk etymologies and expose specious backstories. (I’d love a whole episode dedicated to the worst offenders among fake-word origins). As an American Anglophile, I also really enjoy the transatlantic representation and repartee between the hosts, who, by the way have great chemistry and just a r... more

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Barkers1993
    United States4 months ago

Listeners Say

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

Feedback often praises the lightheartedness and humor infused into episodes, making every topic enjoyable.
The podcast is an enlightening journey into etymology that brings satisfaction to word enthusiasts.
Many reviewers highlight the informative nature of the discussions and the hosts' ability to make complex topics accessible and fun.
Listeners appreciate the engaging chemistry and camaraderie between the hosts, which enhances the enjoyment of each episode.
Listeners find the show family-friendly and suitable for all ages, making it a popular choice among families and language lovers alike.

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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 curiosity-driven exploration of the origins and meanings of everyday words and phrases defines the unique approach of this show. Co-hosted by enthusiastic experts, listeners are treated to engaging discussions that navigate through a variety of topics ranging from etymology to cultural insights linked to language. The hosts share anecdotes, humorous commentary, and trivia about language, making it not only educational but also entertaining. Episodes cover diverse themes including idioms, country names, and technical terms, all while maintaining an approachable tone that invites curiosity and laughter.

What sets this show apart is its commitment to breaking down linguistic complexities into enjoyable narratives, making it an ideal listen... more

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How many episodes of Words Unravelled are there?

Words Unravelled launched 2 years ago and published 60 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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Recent guests on Words Unravelled include:

1. Mignon Fogarty

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