Science Diction
Science Diction is a podcast about words and the science stories behind them.
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Each episode of Science Diction takes a word or phrase, and with the help of historians, authors, etymologists, and scientists, serves up language with a side of science.
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Saying Goodbye To Science Diction
It’s been wonderful to have you sharing in our Science Diction fun for the last two years. But, all good things must come to an end.
12:12
The Resurrection Of The American Chestnut
A once-common food staple, this giant tree has essentially disappeared from American forests. Can we bring it back—and should we?
American Chestnut: Resurrecting A Forest Giant
The American Chestnut towered in forests, then disappeared. Now, it’s staging a comeback.
12:02
The Why Of Vocal Fry
Vocal fry has been around for ages. Why are people suddenly so bothered by it?
Vocal Fry: Why I’m Not Getting A Voice Coach
Vocal fry has been around for ages. So why are people suddenly so bothered by it?
Juggernaut: Indian Temple Or Unstoppable Force?
Jagannath Temple in India gave rise to the word “juggernaut.” But the ancient story of Jagannath is rather delightful.
Jargon: We Love To Hate It
Most people despise it. So why do we use it? And is all jargon bad?
Algebra: From Broken Bones To Twitter Feuds
When a high school student asked a question about algebra on TikTok, she unknowingly awoke an age-old debate in mathematics history.
Science Diction: Knock On Wood And Tsunami
The origin of a superstitious phrase, and a Japanese word that’s staked its place in English.