Legends of English

1.

Legends of E nglish
Words: Origins and
Histories
Delve into the fascinating stories behind the words we use every day.
Uncover the hidden histories and linguistic roots that shape the English
language, from ancient influences to modern adaptations.
by Полина В

2.

The Fascinating Origins of
"Sandwich"
The term "sandwich" was coined in the 18th century, named after John
Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich. Tradition holds that the busy earl, an
avid gambler, invented the portable food to avoid interrupting his card
games.

3.

The Unexpected S tory Behind "Boycott"
The term "boycott" has a fascinating origin story.
It stems from the name of an Irish land agent
named Charles Boycott, who was ostracized by
his community in the 1880s for his harsh
treatment of tenant farmers. The local population
refused to interact with him, leading to the
coinage of this now-common word.

4.

The S urprising R oots of "S abotage"
S abotaged Machinery
Wooden Clogs as
Weapons
The Origin of the Word
in 19th century Europe when
The workers' choice of weapon
meaning to damage or destroy,
factory workers, angered by
was the humble wooden clog,
derived from the use of these
poor working conditions, would
which they would toss into the
wooden clogs, known as
intentionally damage or destroy
gears of machines, causing
"sabots," as tools of disruption
machinery to protest their
them to grind to a halt and
and protest.
employers.
disrupt production.
The term "sabotage" originated
The French word "saboter,"

5.

The Intriguing History of "Silhouette"
The term "silhouette" originated from the name
of É tienne de Silhouette, a French finance
minister known for his cost-cutting measures in
the 18th century. His thrifty policies led to the
popularity of simple black-and-white profiles,
which became known as "silhouettes" due to his
unpopular legacy.
This inexpensive art form soon became a
fashionable way to capture likenesses, leading
to the rise of professional "silhouettists" who
could create detailed portraits using just black
paper and scissors.

6.

The Curious Case of
"Maverick"
The term "maverick" has an intriguing origin story, tracing back to a Texas
cattle rancher named Samuel Maverick. Refusing to brand his cattle,
Maverick allowed his livestock to roam freely, leading to the use of his
name to describe any unbranded, independent-minded individual.

7.

The Mysterious Birth of "Denim"
The F abric's Origins
A Workwear E ssential
Levi S trauss' Innovation
The word "denim" is believed to
Denim gained popularity as a
Levi Strauss, a German-
have originated from the
tough, practical fabric for
American businessman, played
French city of Nîmes, where a
workwear, especially among
a key role in the widespread
sturdy twill fabric was first
miners, cowboys, and other
adoption of denim by patenting
produced. The unique weaving
laborers in the American West
the riveted pocket design that
technique created a durable,
during the 19th century.
made denim pants more
blue-colored cloth.
durable.

8.

The Surprising Backstory of "Pajamas"
The word "pajamas" has an intriguing origin
story. Derived from the Persian word "pāy-jāma",
meaning "leg garment", the term was originally
used to describe loose, lightweight trousers worn
in South Asia. The garment was later adopted by
British colonists and eventually made its way
into the English language.
Over time, the meaning of "pajamas" evolved to
describe the comfortable sleepwear we know
today. This transformation reflects the global
exchange of ideas and the fascinating way
language adapts to new cultural influences.

9.

The Captivating Tale of "Posh"
Origins of "Posh"
Evoking Sophistication
The Posh Lifestyle
The term "posh" originated in
The word "posh" was used to
To be described as "posh" was
the 19th century, referring to the
describe the exclusive and
to embody the refined tastes,
luxurious and privileged
lavish environments inhabited
impeccable manners, and
lifestyle of the British upper
by the wealthy elite, from grand
elevated social standing
class. It evoked images of
country homes to prestigious
associated with the privileged
affluence, style, and social
social clubs.
classes of Victorian-era Britain.
status.

10.

The Intriguing R oots of
"Brainwashing"
The term "brainwashing" has its origins in the Communist revolution in
China during the 1950s. It describes a sinister process of psychological
manipulation and indoctrination used to coerce individuals into adopting
new beliefs and behaviors. The roots of this chilling concept reflect the
darker side of human nature and the power of propaganda.