With spring marking the changing weather, when the cold winter winds are swapped for floral-filled days, it got me thinking about how the meaning of words also changes. One of the continuing controversies of my job is dealing with that fickle aspect of the English language, words that change their meaning – known as [more…]
While many of us crave the sunshine and heat of summer, one of the silver linings of the chilly winter months is that they offer the perfect excuse to cosy up at home and get lost in our silver screen favourites. As well as an almost endless source of entertainment, I’ve found films and [more…]
CONGRATULATIONS to the latest winners in our Lovatts Subscriber Sweepstake!
These lucky subscribers have shared in £250 worth of prizes!
Fitbit Inspire HR – P Chilvers, Crawley
Twinings Tea Chest – H Trethewey, Ashford
Breville Strata Electric Kettle – R Eves, Colchester
Cole and Mason Spice and Herb Rack – S Morris, Saltburn By The Sea
The Sweepstake is our [more…]
Hello!
Did you know that Ancient Egyptians held cats in the highest esteem, and praised the creatures for tasks such as killing venomous snakes and protecting the Pharaoh? It seems that cats have never forgotten this high regard, given the stereotype of cats being haughty and contrary with their affection. I’ve never found this with [more…]
Hello!
There is a common myth about how the kangaroo got its name. When European explorers first saw a kangaroo they asked a native Australian what it was called. The local didn’t understand the question and replied ‘kangaroo’ meaning “I don’t know” in his own language. The explorers took this to be the animal’s name. [more…]
Hello!
I’ve often marvelled at the journey a word takes from its birth to its present usage, and one fine example is termagant, an answer I’ve clued before in a recent MegaMix crossword.
The word termagant means a violent, overbearing person, usually a woman. Synonyms we might use as clues are shrew, virago, harridan, formidable [more…]
Hello,
About 10 years ago, when staying with my cousin in Ireland, we had homemade granola for breakfast every day. It was so scrumptious I begged him for the recipe. Now I make a batch every fortnight, and we have it for breakfast every 2 or 3 days. It’s so easy to make and you [more…]
What is Japan famous for? Quite a lot of things actually. From iconic landscapes like Mount Fuji and beautiful cherry blossoms to traditional tea ceremonies, pod hotels and bullet trains, there’s an amazing variety of exotic attractions people think of when you mention Japan.
But you may not have thought many Japanese words have crept [more…]
CONGRATULATIONS to the latest winners in our
Lovatts Subscriber Sweepstake!
These lucky subscribers have shared in £250 worth of prizes!
Dior J’Adore Eau de Parfum & Parfum Travel Spray – J Perkins, Heanor
Neom Organics London Real Luxury Scented Candle – S Sinfield, Maidenstone & M Such, Market Harborough
Breville 4 Slice Toaster – J Musgrove, Ipswich
The Sweepstake is [more…]
