In this special “iso edition” episode, we chat about some of the many new words that have emerged from the global pandemic of COVID-19. One of the most common ways new words are made is by word mashups, or portmanteau words. The massive societal change brought about by coronavirus has resulted in many new words cropping up — from quarantini to covidiot and beyond. Read more about Word for Word at macquariedictionary.com.au/podcast

Word for Word

#33 New word mashups

Australian English has many fascinating stories, interesting etymologies, and wonderfully weird slang. The language is constantly evolving as the world around us changes; new words are created, meanings change, and other things get left behind. In Word for Word, we explore the surprising histories behind everyday words and phrases, go behind the scenes with the dictionary editors, and meet some of Australia's most interesting word-lovers, from Scrabble champions to hip-hop artists. Join us as we explore our language: the ways we use it, the ways we abuse it, and the ways we ultimately change it.

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Word for Word