Christmas Past

Have you ever wondered why we say "merry Christmas" and not "happy Christmas"? And why the word "merry" seems to exist nowadays only to be used for spreading holiday cheer? We'll get it sorted out with the help of linguist Arika Okrent.  Music in this Episode: Gaena: Blue Dot Sessions March: Kai Engel Delicant: Podington Bear Suppose it Is: Podington Bear Wish Background: Kevin MacCleod  Rate Christmas Past on Apple Podcasts, and I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. After leaving your review, get in touch through the contact page at http://christmaspast.media/contact and let me know your Apple Podcasts username and an address where you can receive your sticker.  Follow Christmas Past on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. Christmas Past is a proud member of the Christmas Podcast Network, a collection of the best Christmas shows around.