Color Me Surprised - 9 March 2026
From A Way with Words - language, linguistics, and callers from all over by Martha Barnette and Grant Barrett. Produced by Stefanie Levine.
March 9, 2026 · 54 min
About this episode
This episode explores the evolving meaning of happiness, the challenges of learning a new language as an adult, and various terms related to RV travel.
Over the centuries, the meaning of happiness has traveled a long way. Today we speak of the pursuit of happiness, but it used to be that the word happiness suggested something that occurs only by chance–something that simply… happens. Plus, the joys and challenges of learning a new language in adulthood. And: Ready for an adventure? Then prepare for some boondocking. Or wallydocking. Or maybe even some crackerdocking. You’ll want to know those terms and more if you travel in an RV. Plus, stinky slinky, mishap, fubsy, meckle, dogwalkers’ slang, a consonant-heavy puzzle, som plommen i egget, collect the pearls, Genussstille, companionable silence, gassers, coffee soup, sliding pond vs. slide, duffel bag, and lots more. 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 more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
People in this episode
Hosts: Martha Barnette, Grant Barrett
Topics covered
- happiness
- language learning
- RV travel
- linguistics
- word origins
Keywords
- happiness
- language learning
- boondocking
- RV travel
- linguistics
- word puzzles
- slang
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Wayword, Inc.
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