Mysteries of Vernacular: Jade

The video explores the history and etymology of the word 'jade'. Initially believed to have medicinal properties, jade was brought to Europe by the Spanish in the 16th century and renamed by the French. In the 19th century, it was discovered that jade referred to two minerals: jadeite and nephrite. Additionally, 'jade' has an English homonym unrelated to the gemstone, referring to a disreputable woman or a worn-out horse.

What was jade historically believed to be effective in treating?

• Heart disorders

• Kidney disorders

• Lung disorders

• Liver disorders

What name did the Spanish give to jade when they brought it to Europe?

• Piedra de la tierra

• Piedra de la luna

• Piedra de la ijada

• Piedra de la mar

Which country renamed the stone to 'jade'?

• Italy

• France

• Germany

• Portugal

What are the two distinct minerals that the term 'jade' refers to?

• Jadeite and nephrite

• Nephrite and quartz

• Jadeite and quartz

• Jadeite and amethyst

What is the Greek root word for nephrite, and what does it mean?

• Nephros, meaning heart

• Nephros, meaning lung

• Nephros, meaning kidney

• Nephros, meaning liver

What did the word 'jade' historically refer to in English?

• A precious gemstone

• A type of tree

• A disreputable woman or a broken-down horse

• A type of bird

What does the term 'jaded' mean?

• Full of energy

• Worn out or lacking enthusiasm

• New and exciting

• Bright and shiny

What is the origin of the word 'jaded'?

• It originates from a type of bird

• It is derived from a type of plant

• It comes from the archaic, equine-related definition

• It comes from the gemstone jade