A Way with Words - language, linguistics, and callers from all over

Buttons on Ice Cream - 13 April 2026

· PT53M45S

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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 .

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