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Origins of Words

From Countdown
Susie Dent on 11 December 2008.

Origins of Words is a short slot presented by Susie Dent between rounds 11 and 12 (previously rounds 9 and 10 in the old 15 round format). The feature was first used on 19 September 2007 to recognise Dent's popularity with Countdown fans. The name is slightly misleading as she often explains the origins of phrases as well as words. The slot lasts a couple of minutes and involves Dent explaining the etymology of a few words or phrases, usually on a particular theme.

For a couple of weeks during Series 58 she started using words and phrases from other languages like Spanish, French and German, and giving the literal translations into English.

Sometimes there would be a common theme that connects the words featured in Origins of Words for a week or so. At other times, Dent would get the presenters or the Dictionary Corner guest that week to guess the meaning of an unusual word, in a multiple-choice fashion similar to Call My Bluff.

See also