Columnists

Susie Dent is star-struck by the origin of some common words

“We can still catch an echo of the constellations if we listen hard enough,” says our lexicographer.

Columnists

Susie Dent on the real people behind our most popular expressions

Our columnist reveals the real-life stories of the people behind some of our most famous words and sayings.

Columnists

Susie Dent on icky words

Our lexicographer rounds up the secret stories behind common words with an ‘icky’ origin.

Columnists

Susie Dent on mispronunciations

Our lexicographer shares a few of her favourite mispronunciation slip-ups.