Buttons on Ice Cream - 13 April 2026

Buttons on Ice Cream - 13 April 2026

From A Way with Words - language, linguistics, and callers from all over by Martha Barnette and Grant Barrett. Produced by Stefanie Levine.

April 13, 2026 · 54 min

About this episode

The episode explores dictionary definitions of colors, the origins of expressions, and various linguistic terms.

How do dictionaries define colors? And why are some of those definitions so confusing, like “stronger than carmine” and “bluer than fiesta”? Dictionary editor Kory Stamper explains it all in her new book. Plus, the story behind the expression more bang for your buck goes back to World War II. And did you know there’s a term for those pieces of green plastic fringe in supermarket displays that makes things look more appetizing? Keep an eye out for parsley runners! Also: brolic, more bang for your buck, feeling dingy, mirabiliary, a brain teaser about verbal misunderstandings, between the mustard and the mayo, liminal, the German disease, and the sayings It’s an ill wind that blows nobody any good and Hay is for horses, straw is cheaper, grass is free, marry a farmer, and you have all three. Hear hundreds of free episodes and learn more on the A Way with Words website: https://waywordradio.org. Be a part of the show: call or text 1 (877) 929-9673 toll-free in the United States and Canada; elsewhere in the world, call or text +1 619 800 4443. Send voice notes or messages via WhatsApp 16198004443. Email words@waywordradio.org. Copyright Wayword, Inc., a 501(c)(3) corporation. Learn…

People in this episode

Hosts: Martha Barnette, Grant Barrett

Guest: Kory Stamper

Topics covered

  • dictionary definitions
  • color terminology
  • language expressions
  • linguistic misunderstandings
  • cultural phrases

Keywords

  • dictionary
  • colors
  • expressions
  • linguistics
  • language

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Wayword, Inc.

Books & works: A Way with Words

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