Word Archaeology: alembroth
A double chloride of ammonium and mercury. Alchemists considered it a universal solvent. The term, thought to have been first used in 1726, derives from Middle...
October 31, 2020
Monthly Archive: October 2020
Word Archaeology: ailurophobia
First used in 1905, according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, ailurophobia refers to an irrational fear of cats. It’s derived from the Greek word “aielouros” for cat...
October 30, 2020
Word Archaeology: agnification
This word refers to the representation of people in paintings as sheep or lambs. It’s derived from “agnus”, which is Latin for lamb. Usage dates back...
October 29, 2020
Word Archaeology: aegyptianellosis
This acute, tick-borne disease afflicts domestic birds, such as chickens, turkeys, and pigeons. Transmitted by the chicken tick, particularly around the Mediterranean, aegyptianellosis symptoms include fever,...
October 27, 2020
Word Archaeology: adelphogamy
Adelphogamy is a polygamous relationship in which brothers share a common wife or wives. The word – first used in 1888, according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary...
October 27, 2020
Word Archaeology: acciaccatura
Derived from the Italian word “acciaccare” (to crush), acciaccatura is first thought to have been used in the year 1749, according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary. It’s...
October 26, 2020
Word Archaeology: abutilon
This genus of flowering plants of the mallow family, with lobed leaves and single flowers, is distributed throughout the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Australia. The genus...
October 25, 2020
Word Archaeology: abecedarius
An abecedarius is an acrostic in which the first letter of every word or verse follows the order of letters in the alphabet, such as: “Angels...
October 24, 2020
Word Archaeology: abat-voix
This device, which can be as simple as a wooden structure above and behind a speaker’s stand on a pulpit, reflects sound toward an audience. Also...
October 23, 2020
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