Science Diction
Science Diction is a podcast about words and the science stories behind them.
Subscribe To The Podcast
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.
Get The Newsletter
Sign up for the Science Diction newsletter for bonuses, recommended reading, and more.
Listen To All Episodes
Science Diction Returns For Season 3
Starting February 9, we’re back with more words and stories—all about mind control.
12:27
Where Did The Word ‘Vaccine’ Come From?
The story of the first vaccine begins with a disease, a milkmaid, and a cow named Blossom.
7:12
What’s In A (Hurricane) Name?
This year, we ran out of hurricane monikers. Why do we name hurricanes in the first place?
How Do You Solve A Problem Named Hydrox?
Before Oreo, there was a nearly identical cookie on the market. A much-loved cookie with a terrible name.
How Did The ‘Cosmic Crisp’ Apple Get Its Name?
When it takes 20 years to develop a new apple, you better have a dazzling name to go with it.
When Restaurants Were Chic Soup Spas
The first restaurants were for fancy French people trying not to eat.
Communal Eating With ‘Gastropod’
The science behind why sharing a meal means so much.
Why Does ‘Rocky Road’ Ice Cream Sound So Delicious?
How linguistic tricks can influence your choices at the ice cream freezer.