Join or Sign In
Sign in to customize your TV listings
By joining TV Guide, you agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the data practices in our Privacy Policy.

The history of America is buried in a surprising place—the unique phrases we use every day. What’s the story behind our most popular slang phrases, from “dyed in the wool” and “long in the tooth” to “three sheets to the wind” and “dead as a doornail?” Even words as simple as “hello” and “goodbye” contain secret messages—powerful hidden records of the American story.
Loading. Please wait...
Episode 1
Sat, May 31, 201444 mins
In this episode, we look at the ways that American English has been transformed by animals, food, sports--and death. Ever wonder why we say "that's a horse of a different color" or "that's for the birds"? Why do we "chew the fat" when we talk or "put up our dukes" when we fight? And why, when we die, do we "kick the bucket"? All these terms show the ways that American English has evolved and mutated through the animals we raise, the food we eat, the games we play and the end we want to avoid. Zach Selwyn hosts.






