High Jinks (Rebroadcast) - 12 October 2026
Summary
Listeners discuss the Israeli slang "kit bag question," the origins of "gee whiz," and the history of "hijinks." A caller shares the story behind the word "petrichor," while others explore the idiom "chance your arm" and the tradition of saying "rabbit" for good luck. The hosts also present a synonym puzzle and recommend Jennifer Michael Hecht's book on poetry as a secular liturgy.
Topics discussed
Sponsor: Rocket Mortgage credit card debt
Listener explains the slang 'kit bag question'
Rodigo Ortega on outdated slang and 'Gee Whiz'
Erica's 'Hijinks' vanity plate and word history
Show contact info and transition
Quiz: Compound synonyms with John Janeski
Origin of the idiom 'chance your arm'
Show contact info and transition
Mike Miller asks about the word 'petrichor'
The history and sound of 'Tut Tut'
Show sign-off and transition
Book review: The Wonder Paradox by Jennifer Michael Hecht
Anna asks about plural possessives for pets
Navy slang: 'Waltzing Matilda' on periscope duty
The origin and meaning of 'bopping around'
The tradition of saying 'Rabbit' on the 1st
Credits and final contact information
Sponsor: Mint Mobile
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