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

Jade, a green stone, was historically believed to have medicinal properties, especially for kidney disorders. In the 16th century, the Spanish brought jade to Europe, where it became popular as both a cure and an ornament. The French renamed it jade, a term still used today. In the 19th century, it was discovered that jade referred to two minerals: jadeite and nephrite. Additionally, jade has an English homonym, historically referring to a disreputable woman or a broken-down horse, unrelated to the gemstone.

What is the Greek word from which nephrite is derived, and what does it mean?

• Nephros, meaning kidney

• Jade, meaning stone

• Piedra, meaning rock

• Loin, meaning side

What does the term 'jaded' mean, and how is it related to the word jade?

• Worn out or lacking enthusiasm

• A type of gemstone

• A disreputable woman

• A decorative ornament