Jolly

In this festive December episode of One Word, we embrace the spirit of the season by diving into the word “jolly.” Beyond exploring its linguistic roots and literary history, we delve into the traditions, stories, and symbols that make this time of year so joyful.

From the origins of holiday staples like mistletoe and Christmas carols to the philosophical idea of well-timed humor (eutrapelia), we uncover the deeper meanings and history behind what makes the holidays so uniquely cheerful.

We’ll also discuss the things that bring jolliness into our lives during the season—shared laughter, community traditions, and festive surprises. Plus, test your holiday knowledge with a fun trivia game full of surprising seasonal facts.

This episode is a warm reminder of how joy, in its many forms, can connect us, uplift us, and make this time of year truly magical!