Watch America's Secret Slang

TV-PG
2013
2 Seasons
7.9 (83)

America's Secret Slang is an engaging and informative television series that explores the fascinating history and evolution of some of the most popular and enduring phrases and expressions in the English language. Hosted by Zach Selwyn, Ben Waters, and Laura Warner, the show takes viewers on a journey through American history, tracing the origins and meanings of words and phrases that are now a ubiquitous part of our everyday speech. Over the course of the series, the hosts explore topics such as slang from the Wild West, musical slang from the Jazz Age, and even military slang from World War II. The show uses a mix of interviews, reenactments, and historical footage to illustrate the cultural and linguistic context in which these phrases were born, and to highlight their surprising, and sometimes even humorous, roots. For example, in one episode, the hosts explore the origins of the phrase "Gringo," which is commonly used to refer to a foreigner or an American in Latin America. Through interviews with scholars and experts, the show reveals that the word originated in Spain and that it was originally used to describe the grating sound that American soldiers made when they marched in unison during the Spanish-American War. The show also explores how the word went from being an insult to being embraced by Americans as a kind of quirky badge of honor. Another episode of the show explores military slang from World War II, highlighting the role that slang played in bringing soldiers from different regions of the country and different walks of life together as a cohesive fighting force. Through interviews with soldiers and historians, the show reveals how slang was used to create a sense of camaraderie and to identify members of one's own unit. The episode also explores the ways in which military slang contributed to the war effort, from giving nicknames to strategic locations to creating code words for secret missions. America's Secret Slang is a thought-provoking and entertaining series that offers a unique perspective on American history and culture through the lens of language. Whether you're a lover of language or simply curious about the origins of some of America's most beloved phrases, this show has something to offer. With its engaging hosts, expert guests, and fascinating historical footage, America's Secret Slang is a must-watch for anyone interested in the rich and complex history of American English.

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Seasons

2 1

8. Hail to the Chief

August 2, 2014

Examining the words and phrases inspired by U.S. presidents.

7. Go for Broke

July 26, 2014

Examining the ways American English has been influenced by the Vikings to the threat of nuclear war.

6. Bite the Bullet

July 19, 2014

Examining the ways American English has been influenced by the military, police, aviation and baseball.

5. Cut to the Chase

June 28, 2014

Examining the ways American English has been influenced by the performing arts.

4. Off the Cuff

June 21, 2014

Examining the ways American English has been influenced by clothes, crimes and punishments.

3. Lower the Boom

June 14, 2014

Examining the ways American English has been influenced by the high seas, the ancient world, the movers and shakers of big business, and the news industry.

2. Riding Shotgun

June 7, 2014

Examining the ways American English has been influenced by forms of transportation and different intoxicating substances.

1. Straight from the Horse's Mouth

May 31, 2014

Examining the ways American English has been influenced by animals, food, sports--and death. Ever wonder why we say "that's a horse of a different color" or "chew the fat?"

Description

The show uses a mix of interviews, reenactments, and historical footage to illustrate the cultural and linguistic context in which these phrases were born, and to highlight their surprising, and sometimes even humorous, roots. For example, in one episode, the hosts explore the origins of the phrase "Gringo," which is commonly used to refer to a foreigner or an American in Latin America. Through interviews with scholars and experts, the show reveals that the word originated in Spain and that it was originally used to describe the grating sound that American soldiers made when they marched in unison during the Spanish-American War. The show also explores how the word went from being an insult to being embraced by Americans as a kind of quirky badge of honor.

Another episode of the show explores military slang from World War II, highlighting the role that slang played in bringing soldiers from different regions of the country and different walks of life together as a cohesive fighting force. Through interviews with soldiers and historians, the show reveals how slang was used to create a sense of camaraderie and to identify members of one's own unit. The episode also explores the ways in which military slang contributed to the war effort, from giving nicknames to strategic locations to creating code words for secret missions.

America's Secret Slang is a thought-provoking and entertaining series that offers a unique perspective on American history and culture through the lens of language. Whether you're a lover of language or simply curious about the origins of some of America's most beloved phrases, this show has something to offer. With its engaging hosts, expert guests, and fascinating historical footage, America's Secret Slang is a must-watch for anyone interested in the rich and complex history of American English.

America's Secret Slang is a series that is currently running and has 2 seasons (14 episodes). The series first aired on April 14, 2013.

Where to Watch America's Secret Slang

America's Secret Slang is available for streaming on the H2 website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch America's Secret Slang on demand at Google Play and Apple TV.