Skip to main content

Mysteries of vernacular: Jade - Jessica Oreck and Rachael Teel

36,093 Views

154 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

Now known for its beauty and green hue, the stone jade was previously thought to espouse magical properties, such as kidney treatment. Jessica Oreck and Rachael Teel explain the word’s travels from 15th century to Spain to today (and why the word jaded is unrelated by root).

Additional Resources for you to Explore

Nephros means kidney, and jadeite is the mineral. Though they sound the same, jade (the stone/mineral) and jaded (worn out; lacking enthusiasm) mean completely different things.

Next Section »

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Director Jessica Oreck
  • Producer Rachael Teel

More from Mysteries of Vernacular