150. Congé

This week, Emily and Kyle get their vacation time approved and finally take that holiday to France, exploring the meaning and origin of the word congé along the way.

Our hosts trace this word from modern day France all the way back to Ancient Rome, talking about sick leave, travel, and even squeezing in the history of the word commute! They also take a few linguistic detours, in which Emily notes some detailed architecture and Kyle recalls a delicious rice dish.

Kyle and Emily discuss how both congé and congee can encompass a variety of meanings. It can describe the passport Thomas Jefferson is waiting for; the permission needed to pick a new Archbishop of Canterbury; the respectful bow made by a departing gentleman; or the rather less respectful goodbye received by a jilted lover.