Elixir

Ever found yourself wondering why we say "butterfly" or what a "snollygoster" might be? Lexicographer Susie Dent and writer Gyles Brandreth have built a delightful space to explore exactly that. Their Something Rhymes with Purple podcast feels less like a lesson and more like eavesdropping on a wonderfully meandering conversation between two deeply knowledgeable friends. Each episode digs into the quirks and histories of our language, unearthing surprising etymologies and forgotten words that deserve a comeback. You'll come away not just with an enhanced vocabulary, but with stories about how words shaped history and culture, all delivered with a warm, witty charm. It’s this blend of genuine expertise and playful camaraderie that has earned the show its award-winning status. While the journey through language is the main attraction, the tone is consistently light and often humorous, fitting its home in arts, comedy, and education. Produced by Sony Music Entertainment, the podcast is a regular invitation to rediscover the joy and sheer oddity of the English language. For those who find themselves captivated, there are avenues to join a community of fellow word enthusiasts and dive even deeper.