The Plural of Octopus


(YouTube link)

Every time we blog about an octopus, or rather, more than one octopus, we can count on a debate in the comments about the proper plural form for the animal. Here's the real scoop from Kory Stamper, who is an Associate Editor at Merriam-Webster, the dictionary company. -via Holy Kaw!

Comments (18)

Newest 5
Newest 5 Comments

Crap! I knew about octopus being a Greek derivative and the derived plural being octopodes, but I had only read this, never heard anyone say it... so I've been mispronouncing octopodes for years. I feel so ashamed.
Abusive comment hidden. (Show it anyway.)
In grad school we learned that people decided to watch TV because they were "in the vicinity of an operable set while there was an absence of other more compelling activities."

In other words, there wasn't anything better to do. Works for the Internet too, it seems.
Abusive comment hidden. (Show it anyway.)
"Those are the people we aim to serve" -- probably just meant as a joke, but this is a vast misreading of your customer base. The front pages of yahoo, comcast, huffpo, youtube, exist to serve that demographic. Neatorama exists to serve the eternally curious who like broadening their knowledge into new subjects. Never lose track of your audience.
Abusive comment hidden. (Show it anyway.)
Login to comment.
Email This Post to a Friend
"The Plural of Octopus"

Separate multiple emails with a comma. Limit 5.

 

Success! Your email has been sent!

close window
X

This website uses cookies.

This website uses cookies to improve user experience. By using this website you consent to all cookies in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

I agree
 
Learn More