4 chapters across the catalog
The term umami has seen a surge in popular usage since the early 2000s, largely driven by professional chefs on television cooking programs. An Ngram search indicates the word was virtually non-existent in common English parlance prior to this period. While often described as a savory or meaty taste, the term is frequently used as a modern euphemism for the flavor profile associated with monosodium glutamate (MSG).
John Dvorak provides the "Tip of the Day," recommending the Google Books Ngram Viewer for analyzing the historical usage of specific terms. The show concludes with a series of "In-Show Opps" (sound bites) and a classic end-of-show mix. The final segments feature a montage of "Season of Reveal" jingles and a discussion of AI-powered photo editing tools.
MSNBC host Joy Reid claims that "inflation" is a word taught to the public by Republicans and journalists rather than being part of the common American lexicon. However, Google Ngram data reveals that the word's usage actually peaked in 1979 and has been a standard economic term for decades. The analysis suggests Reid's commentary is out of touch with historical and current linguistic reality.
An investigation into the name "Adam Curry" using Google Ngram Viewer shows unexpected peaks in literature during the 1860s and 1880s. A modern "hockey stick" curve in the name's popularity began in 1983, coinciding with the host's career at MTV, and peaked in 1996. A secondary surge is noted around 2007, corresponding with the rise of the podcasting medium.
