TED-ED: Mysteries of vernacular: Gorgeous - Jessica Oreck and Rachael Teel

The video explores the etymology of the word 'gorgeous', tracing its origins from the Latin 'gurges', meaning whirlpool and throat, to its transformation in England as 'gorge', and later in France as 'gorgias', a term for a fashionable wimple. The word evolved into Middle English as 'gorgayse' and finally became 'gorgeous', associated with beauty and elegance.

What was the original Latin meaning of the word that eventually became 'gorgeous'?

• A swirling whirlpool

• A beautiful landscape

• A type of bird

• A piece of jewelry

How did the English interpret the word 'gorge' when it arrived in the 14th century?

• As a musical instrument

• As a type of food

• As a steep ravine

• As a type of clothing

What was the 'gorgias' in the Middle Ages?

• A fashionable garment

• A type of architecture

• A popular hairstyle

• A type of dance

What did the word 'gorgias' come to signify in terms of social status?

• Strength and power

• Wisdom and knowledge

• Creativity and art

• Wealth and elegance

What is the modern English word that evolved from 'gorgayse'?

• Gregarious

• Generous

• Gorgeous

• Graceful