Potion Master’s Prüfung: Week 7
Greetings, Inquisitive Apprentices!
Words carry stories — but not all those stories are true! This week’s Potion Master’s Prüfung dares you to separate fact from fiction as we unravel the tangled web of word origin myths.
Can you uncover the truth behind these tricky terms? Let’s find out…
The Challenge: Fact or Fiction?
Below are five intriguing “origin stories” about this week’s featured words. But beware! Not all of them are true — some are common myths.
Your mission: Identify which stories are true and which ones are word origin myths — and if you suspect a myth, can you guess what the real origin might be?
Posh
Legend says this word stands for “Port Out, Starboard Home” — a term used by wealthy passengers booking the most comfortable cabins on luxury ships.
Fact or Fiction?
Siren
The word “siren” comes from an ancient Greek myth about beautiful yet deadly creatures who lured sailors to their doom with enchanting songs.
Fact or Fiction?
Butterfly
This word is believed to have come from the idea that witches, disguised as butterflies, would steal milk and butter.
Fact or Fiction?
Golf
Many claim the word “golf” is actually an acronym for “Gentlemen Only, Ladies Forbidden” — a supposed reference to the sport’s male-dominated roots.
Fact or Fiction?
Ring Around the Rosie
This nursery rhyme is said to describe the Black Death, with “rosie” symbolizing plague sores and “all fall down” referring to death.
Fact or Fiction?
Key Dates to Remember:
Newsletter Release: Every Friday
Potion Master’s Prüfung: Every Sunday
Answer Key Reveal: Every Wednesday
Uncover the Truth, Banish the Myths!
Language is full of surprises — and sometimes the most popular stories are the least true. Will you fall for the myths or expose the real origins behind these words?
Sharpen your wits, brave apprentices… and may the truth guide your quill!