Word Backstories Part 2 Quiz

“Clew” referred to a ball of thread, inspired by the Greek myth of Theseus using thread to escape the labyrinth. The spelling later evolved into “clue.”

“Hello” became popular as a greeting through its use by telegraph and telephone operators, replacing earlier greetings like “ahoy.”

In folklore, a “mare” was a supernatural being believed to sit on people’s chests during sleep, causing terror. This belief gave rise to the modern meaning of “nightmare.”

“Luxury” comes from the Latin luxuria, meaning excess or indulgence, often viewed negatively rather than as a sign of comfort.

“By and large” originated from sailing, describing a ship’s ability to sail both into the wind and away from it.

“Bully” once meant a beloved companion or friend before its meaning shifted to describe aggressive behavior.

“Typo” is short for typographical error, a term that emerged with the rise of printing presses and mass-produced text.

Originally, a “free lance” referred to a medieval mercenary who offered his services independently rather than serving a single lord.

“Denim” comes from serge de Nîmes, a fabric produced in the French town of Nîmes.

“Gossip” comes from god-sibb, meaning a godparent or close family associate, before it evolved to mean idle talk.