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Word History

Words of the Year: 1066

Why is pig meat called 'pork' and cow meat called 'beef?' Because English took on a big serving of French words following the Norman Conquest.


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play video title words of the year 1066
Words of the Year: 1066

 

English was never the same after the Norman Conquest

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i.e. vs. e.g.

 

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

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How Do You Pronounce 'Vase'?

 

And is one way more correct than the others?

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How Do You Pronounce 'Groceries'?

 

Is there one standard way?

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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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'Nip it in the butt' or 'Nip it in the bud'?

 

We're gonna stop you right there

play video mischievous nulcear library mispronunciations
'Mispronunciations' That May Be Fine

 

'Mischievous,' 'nuclear,' and other words to pronounce with caution.