73. Words That Began as Metaphors

<p>Usually, a word begins with a literal, concrete meaning. (Like <em>concrete</em>, for example.) Then, eventually, it starts being used metaphorically. (Hey again, <em>concrete</em>!)</p><p>But with these words, that's not the case. These words began as metaphors and then went backwards.</p><p>Then: what's the difference between <em>ferment</em> and <em>foment</em>?</p><p>Hosted by Emily Brewster, Ammon Shea, and Peter Sokolowski.</p><p>Produced in collaboration with New England Public Media.</p><p>Transcript available <a href="https://www.merriam-webster.com/word-matters-podcast/episode-73-began-as-metaphors" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p>See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.</p>