William Shakespeare isn’t just one of the most influential writers in history—he’s also a major contributor to the English language. Through his 39 plays, 154 sonnets, and other works, he introduced over 1,700 new words and phrases, many of which we still use today without even realizing their origins.
Here are seven popular words and expressions that first appeared in Shakespeare’s writing:
1. Critic
Meaning: Someone who evaluates and gives opinions on creative works like films, books, or performances.
Where it appeared: Love’s Labour’s Lost – Act 3, Scene 1
2. Eyeball
Meaning: The entire eye, including the parts that aren’t usually visible.
Where it appeared: Henry VI, Part 1 – Act 4, Scene 7
3. “It’s Greek to me”
Meaning: A way of saying, “I don’t understand any of this.”
Where it appeared: Julius Caesar – Act 1, Scene 2
4. “All that glitters is not gold”
Meaning: Just because something looks valuable doesn’t mean it really is.
Where it appeared: The Merchant of Venice – Act 2, Scene 7
5. Jaded
Meaning: Feeling worn out or bored, especially after having too much of something.
Where it appeared: Henry VI, Part 2 – Act 4, Scene 1
6. Manager
Meaning: A person in charge of running an organization or team.
Where it appeared: Love’s Labour’s Lost – Act 1, Scene 2
7. “Wild goose chase”
Meaning: A pointless or hopeless search for something that doesn’t exist.
Where it appeared: Romeo and Juliet – Act 2, Scene 4
Shakespeare didn’t just shape storytelling—he helped shape the very words we use to tell stories. These expressions are just a few examples of his lasting legacy in everyday language.
