Etymoleon - Word History, the etymology podcast.
Word History is a weekly 15 minute etymology podcast by Etymoleon, dedicated to uncovering the history behind words and names. Each episode unveils the journey of words and their connections to various languages such as Old English, Ancient Greek, Latin, Old French, Proto-Germanic and many more. Episodes also highlight historical events related to the topic and terms explored.
Earlier episodes were just the beginning, start with later episodes for the best takes on word, name and historical origins.
New episodes every Sunday.
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Etymoleon - Word History, the etymology podcast.
98. Names: Soap Characters
This episode looks at surname origins through the lens of television soap operas, beginning with why these dramas are called soaps and how the conglomerate P&G remains involved in producing them. Some familiar family names point back to professions, with Archer and Fletcher tied to archery and another linked to roofing. British soap EastEnders is famous for tangled family ties, including two characters who at different times have been step-siblings, step-parent and step-son, and in-laws. A surname they both shared is often assumed to be patronymic from Michael, though an Old English root suggests its origin could have a different story. The episode also traces the origins of other well known soap surnames, including Ewing, Brady, Colby, Barlow and Platt.