TED: Mark Forsyth: What’s a snollygoster? A short lesson in political speak - Mark Forsyth (2012)




TED Talks Daily (SD video) show

Summary: Most politicians choose their words carefully, to shape the reality they hope to create. But does it work? Etymologist Mark Forsyth shares a few entertaining word-origin stories from British and American history (for instance, did you ever wonder how George Washington became "president"?) and draws a surprising conclusion. (From TEDxHousesofParliament in London)