33. Pregnancy

This episode uncovers the linguistic roots behind words associated with pregnancy and childbirth. For some generations the word pregnant is considered taboo which is why phrases like 'with child' and 'in the family way' emerged. Discover how the placenta's name harks back to an ancient cake, and how the umbilical cord derives its name from the Latin word for 'navel'. We also get into the surprising origins of the word 'gestation', originally more aligned with equine activity than pregnancy. Additionally, we delve into the meanings behind terms like Braxton Hicks, labour and midwife.