Etymoleon - Word History, etymology
Etymoleon, a weekly 15 minute etymology podcast, gets into the world of word history and origins. Join Leon as he researches and explores the historical and linguistic roots of words, names and phrases tied to diverse topics.
Without expertise in linguistics or history, Leon assumes the role of an avid researcher, presenting analyses of how words have evolved over time.
Each episode unveils the journey of words, dissecting their transformations and connections to various languages such as Old English, Ancient Greek, Latin, Old French, Proto-Germanic and many more.
Expect a linguistic exploration but also snippets of historical events linked to the chosen words.
New episodes every Sunday.
Podcast takes a break prior to bank holidays of England & Wales.
Etymoleon - Word History, etymology
48. Pharmaceuticals
This episode uncovers etymology related to the pharmaceutical industry. Learn how Ozempic and Tylenol got their names, as well as pharmaceutical giants like Roche and Pfizer. Pfizer, for instance, is an occupational surname rooted in a Latin word meaning "baker". Find out how a male enhancement drug might be named after a Sanskrit word meaning "tiger" or designed to evoke the word "vigour". Additionally, we trace the word "placebo" back to a Latin word meaning "to please" and look at the origins of terms like "mongering", "gouging" and "lobbying".