Ben Zimmer

A look at how the word, a surprisingly recent addition to the English lexicon, made its way into the dictionary

The president’s idea that suburbia is characterized by homogeneity and monotony erases recent demographic history.

The band formerly known as the Dixie Chicks has changed its name in light of the growing rejection of racist symbols and phrases.

The president strategically invokes the group in his speeches to stoke fear and shift discourse away from systemic racism.

A recent uptick in Google searches for the term signals a longing for the usual state of affairs.

When conservative figures continually refer to the “Wuhan virus” or “Chinese coronavirus,” it’s clear they’re doing it to make a point.

The phrase’s political currency as a folksy label for Middle America can reinforce a poisonous “us versus them” mentality.

When Elizabeth Warren challenged Pete Buttigieg on fundraising during last night’s debate, the exchange brought another issue to the forefront.

A newcomer used the term in a presidential debate for the first time ever—and it turned out to be the most apt descriptor of the night.

The president exhibited rare restraint yesterday when he censored himself at a press conference. Here’s why.