Did You Know?
The word ‘infant’ literally means ‘unable to speak.’
Derived from Latin 'infans' (in- 'not' + fari 'speak'), the word originally referred specifically to babies who couldn't yet talk. This literal meaning has broadened over time to refer to any very young child.
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‘Sarcophagus’ literally means ‘flesh-eating’ in Greek.
Early stone coffins were made from limestone thought to decompose bodies quickly. The term combines 'sarx' (flesh) and...
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The word ‘dunce’ comes from a brilliant philosopher’s name.
John Duns Scotus was a respected medieval theologian whose followers were called Dunsmen. When their ideas fell out...
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‘Disaster’ literally means ‘bad star’ in Greek.
Combining 'dis' (bad) and 'aster' (star), the word reflects ancient beliefs that celestial events influenced earthly misfortunes. This...