Episode description
It’s not often that someone’s name transforms into an insult, but when it does, it’s usually pretty memorable!
We’ve recently witnessed the transformation of “Karen” from a pretty innocuous name to one with a whole host of negative connotations, but this isn’t the first time such a transformation has occurred.
Throughout history, there’s a strong pattern of names being used as insults, particularly for traitors.If someone’s a Benedict Arnold, you probably know that means they’re a traitor. But what about a quisling?
Same thing!
Vidkun Quisling was a Norwegian politician during World War II who led the collaborationist government after the German invasion. Unlike most of his compatriots, however, he welcomed the invasion and supported the Nazis’ vile agenda.
Norwegians quickly began using the word “quisling” as shorthand for “traitor,” and we picked up the word in English shortly thereafter.
For more information on this fascinating vocabulary word, listen to the entire episode!
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