Eyeballs and Swagger

Ron Rabe
January 15, 2025

Have you ever wondered how some of your favorite words came to exist? Take a moment to appreciate the imaginative mind of William Shakespeare, the Bard of Avon, who wasn’t just a genius playwright and a master wordsmith. Shakespeare didn’t just tell stories; he created language, gifting English dozens of words that are as relevant now as they were in Elizabethan England. Let’s dive into some fascinating trivia about Shakespeare’s linguistic innovations, and who knows—you might find a new reason to appreciate the beauty of language!

Shakespeare was a writer who embraced innovation. Whether he was crafting tragedies like Hamlet, comedies like A Midsummer Night’s Dream, or histories like Henry V, his plays reflected an unparalleled creativity—not just in storytelling but also in how he used words. When Shakespeare couldn’t find the right term for what he wanted to express, he invented one. The result? Words like “swagger” and “eyeball” remain indispensable to this day.

The Origin of “Swagger”

You’ve likely heard “swagger” used to describe someone exuding confidence, perhaps even a bit of arrogance. But did you know this word likely wouldn’t exist without Shakespeare? It first appeared in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, when characters use it to describe a strutting, boastful manner. Shakespeare didn’t pluck this word out of thin air, though; he cleverly adapted it from “swag,” blending its rhythmic punch with a touch of personality. Over time, swagger became the ultimate way to describe that bold, self-assured attitude.

The next time someone walks with a swagger—or even says it—take a moment to thank Shakespeare for his flair. Without him, we might be stuck with less colorful alternatives like “strut” or “gait.” Hardly the same, is it?

Introducing the “Eyeball”

In modern times, it’s impossible to imagine everyday speech without the word “eyeball.” From biology textbooks to casual conversation (“Keep your eyeballs on the prize!”), it’s everywhere. But before Shakespeare, this word didn’t exist. He introduced it in The Tempest, where the vivid imagery of eyeballs enhanced the drama of his storytelling. Rather than relying on clunky phrases like “orb of vision,” Shakespeare gave us something more direct and evocative.

The ingenuity here is Shakespeare’s ability to break down language into its simplest, most visual elements. “Eyeball” is a perfect example of how he connected with audiences by creating functional and memorable terms.

A Legacy of Linguistic Playfulness

The beauty of Shakespeare’s wordsmithing lies in his playful yet practical approach to language. Whether coining new terms, repurposing old ones, or combining existing words in novel ways, he reshaped English in a natural and transformative way. Beyond “swagger” and “eyeball,” he’s credited with words like “gossip,” “addiction,” and even “lonely.” Imagine describing solitude without the word “lonely”!

Shakespeare’s linguistic legacy isn’t limited to individual words. He also contributed countless phrases that have become part of our everyday idiom. Have you ever heard “Break the Ice,” “Wild Goose Chase,” or “Heart of Gold”? All courtesy of the Bard. It’s no wonder that Shakespeare and “innovation” are nearly synonymous.

Why It Matters

Shakespeare’s creativity wasn’t just a product of his genius and his times. The English language was evolving rapidly in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, and Shakespeare was at the forefront of this transformation. He gave English its expressive range, bridging the gap between old and modern forms. The result is a dynamic and versatile language—ready to describe anything from the majestic to the mundane.

For writers, Shakespeare’s example is a reminder to embrace creativity and push boundaries. Don’t be afraid to play with language, blend words, or invent them if needed. Shakespeare proves that even if it doesn’t yet exist, the right word can make all the difference in storytelling.

A Fun Challenge for Readers

Here’s a trivia challenge for you: Can you identify any other Shakespearean words still in use today? Hint: There are over 1,700 of them! From “bedroom” to “fashionable,” his impact on the English lexicon is as expansive as it is fascinating. Explore his plays and see how many you can spot. Who knows—you might find some inspiration for your writing.

So, remember the Bard’s enduring influence the next time you hear someone boast about their swagger or glimpse your reflection in the mirror. Shakespeare’s ability to shape language reminds us of words’ power and the fun that comes with using them.

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