Mudlarking - 25 January 2021

<p>Twice a day the River Thames recedes, revealing a muddy shoreline. Hobbyists known as mudlarks stroll the surface searching for objects that have found their way into the river over the centuries -- everything from ancient Roman jewelry to modern wedding rings. A new book about mudlarking describes the irresistible appeal of searching for treasures and the stories behind them. And: why do performers whisper the phrase Toi, toi, toi to wish each other well backstage before a show? Finally, what's the plural of octopus? Octopuses? Octopi? Or something else? Plus, schniddles vs. schnibbles, visiting vs. talking, fotched a heave, creature comforts, trade-last, a timely pangram, Doves Type, and a brain teaser about malapropisms.</p> <p>Read full show notes, hear hundreds of free episodes, send your thoughts and questions, and learn more on the <em>A Way with Words</em> website: <a href= "https://waywordradio.org/">https://waywordradio.org/</a>. Email <a href="mailto:words@waywordradio.org">words@waywordradio.org</a>. Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/wayword">@wayword</a>. Our listener phone line <a href="tel:+18779299673">1 (877) 929-9673</a> is toll-free in the United States and Canada. Elsewhere in the world, call <a href="tel:+16198004443">+1 (619) 800-4443</a>; charges may apply. From anywhere, text/SMS <a href= "sms:+16195679673">+1 (619) 567-9673</a>. Copyright Wayword, Inc., a 501(c)(3) corporation.</p>