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Word History

The History of 'Cynic'

How an ancient philosophical movement devoted to the pursuit of virtue came to describe eye-rolling criticism.

How an ancient philosophical movement devoted to the pursuit of virtue came to describe eye-rolling criticism.

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play video cynic
The History of 'Cynic'

 

How an ancient philosophical movement devoted to the pursuit of virtue came to describe eye-rolling criticism.

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Why is there a 'd' in 'fridge' but not in 'refrigerator'?

 

Thawing one of the mysteries of English

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i.e. vs. e.g.

 

Often used, often confused. Here's some guidance and insight.

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How a Word Gets into the Dictionary

 

What our editors are looking for when they enter words in Merriam-Webster.

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Further vs. Farther

 

They started as same word, but their meanings have drifted apart over time.

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Literally

 

A word that (literally) drives people nuts

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'Everyday' vs. 'Every Day'

 

A simple trick to keep them separate

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