28. The Onomatopoeia Episode

<p>O-N-O-M-A-T-O-P-O-E-I-A. The forming of a word in imitation of a sound.</p><p>First, we'll look at some words that first described a sound (like <em>pop</em>, or <em>buzz</em>) that then went on to describe completely different things (like <em>pop</em>, or <em>buzz)</em>. Then, we'll get into the phenomenon known as back-formation, or, the creation of a word by the alteration of an existing word (like <em>burgle</em> from <em>burglar</em>). It leaves some people feeling less than gruntled.</p><p>Hosted by Emily Brewster, Neil Serven, Ammon Shea, and Peter Sokolowski.</p><p>Produced in collaboration with New England Public Media.</p><p>Transcript available <a href="https://www.merriam-webster.com/word-matters-podcast/episode-28-onomatopoeia" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p><br></p><p>Today's Podcast is brought to you by The Great Courses Plus. Visit <a href="http://thegreatcoursesplus.com/matters" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">TheGreatCoursesPlus.com/matters</a> to receive a free month of unlimited access.</p>