About Word for the Wise
"Word for the Wise" is a two-minute radio show written and produced by Kathleen Taylor of WAMC, the National Public Radio affiliate in Albany, New York. The program explores one of America's favorite topics: the English language. How much language can you cover in two minutes? You'll be surprised.
Kathleen tells you fascinating, true stories about words (have you heard about the day baseball stopped the presses so that the term "designated hitter" could make it into the new dictionary?), and she debunks language myths (no, there is no evidence that the word "posh" originated as an acronym for "port out, starboard home," the supposed rule for selecting premier cabins on cruise ships).
Merriam-Webster editors help keep Kathleen on her toes, assisting her with research and offering her access to their wealth of resources and expertise. Transcripts and audio from previously broadcast programs can be found on our Web site.
Broadcast Stations
For a complete list of stations that broadcast Word for the Wise, see the WAMC Web site.
Credits
| Executive Producer: | Alan Chartock |
|---|---|
| Writer and Producer: | Kathleen Taylor |
| Host: | Kathleen Taylor |
| Audio Engineer: | Michael Stimac |
| Research and editorial support provided by these Merriam-Webster editors: | Frederick C. Mish, John M. Morse, E. Ward Gilman, James L. Rader, Joanne M. Despres, James G. Lowe, Michael G. Guzzi, Kory L. Stamper, L. Jill Nebeker |
Word for the Wise Contact Information
318 Central Avenue Albany, New York 12206 wftw@aol.com












