Bob Garfield and Mike Vuolo discuss "A literary history of the strange expression 'what is it like?'"—an article by lexicographer Anne Seaton. Lexicon Valley is sponsored by the Great Courses, offering engaging audio and video lectures taught by top professors. Courses like "Great Masters," which delves into the life and music of well-known musicians and composers—including Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms, and Tchaikovsky. Right now, choose from among four of the Great Masters lecture series for just $9.95 when you visit thegreatcourses.com/lexicon. Join Slate Plus! Members get bonus segments, exclusive member-only podcasts, and more. Sign up for a free trial today at www.slate.com/podcastsplus. Twitter: @lexiconvalley Facebook: facebook.com/LexiconValley Email: lexiconvalley@slate.comLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices