The Roots We Share

Susie Dent, bestselling author, broadcaster and word expert, is on a mission to find 100 words and phrases that bring people together.

There are times when the world feels more divided than ever. But it is important to remember the things that unite rather than divide us. Susie has searched far and wide to unearth words and phrases – old, new, and long-forgotten – that celebrate harmony, unity, and the universal languages that connect people across the world.

Whether you want to conjobble (chat with a friend over some food), to be goodwilly (kind, generous, and cheerful), to atone for a mistake (become ‘at’ ‘one’ with someone again) or simply head off on a coddiwomple (a journey with no destination), this joyous collection of words celebrates the things in life that bind us together, from friendship, love and peace, to community, music and even the stars. These are the roots we share.