The Etymologicon summary

Uncovering the Quirks of Language

In The Etymologicon by Mark Forsyth, we embark on a journey to uncover the strange and surprising origins of words. Forsyth begins by explaining the etymology of the word 'etymology' itself, revealing that it stems from the Greek word 'etumon', meaning 'true', and 'logos', meaning 'word'.

We then delve into the etymology of the word 'bride', which turns out to have a rather morbid origin. It is derived from the Proto-Indo-European word 'bru', meaning 'to cook or brew', as the original meaning of 'bride' was a woman who was 'cooked' or 'brewed' for marriage. This surprising origin sets the tone for the rest of the book, as Forsyth continues to uncover the unexpected and often dark roots of our language.

The Curious Evolution of Words

Forsyth then takes us through a series of words and their fascinating etymologies. We learn that the terms 'salt' and 'soldier' are etymologically linked, as Roman soldiers were given an allowance to buy salt, known as 'salarium', from which we derive the word 'salary'. This etymological connection is just one of the many surprising ways in which language has evolved over time.

He also discusses the evolution of the word 'f***'. We learn that it was not always considered the crass word it is today, but rather a common and acceptable term. The word was used in many contexts, from describing the act of sex to being a general intensifier. It was only in the 16th century that it began to take on its more vulgar connotations.

Language's Historical Connections

As we continue our linguistic exploration, we find that words often carry historical connections. For example, the word 'parliament' is derived from the French word 'parler', meaning 'to talk'. This etymology highlights the essential function of a parliament: a place where people come together to talk and discuss matters of importance.

Another example is the word 'clue', which comes from the Greek myth of Theseus and the Minotaur. The hero Theseus used a ball of thread to navigate the labyrinth and defeat the Minotaur. The Greek word for 'ball of thread' is 'clew', which later evolved into the word 'clue' as a metaphor for solving a problem.

Witty and Engaging Exploration

In The Etymologicon, Forsyth's exploration of language is not only informative but also witty and engaging. He has a knack for weaving together historical anecdotes and linguistic facts in a way that makes the book a delight to read. By the end of the book, we are left with a newfound appreciation for the quirks and intricacies of the English language.

In conclusion, The Etymologicon is an illuminating and entertaining journey through the history and evolution of words. It reveals that language is a living entity, constantly changing and adapting, and that the words we use today carry with them a rich tapestry of history and meaning.