The word "penguin," attributed to Newfoundland, remains a mystery in its origin, with no clear explanation of what inspired its creation. This intriguing detail highlights the fascinating linguistic contributions that smaller places can make to global language. The significance of such a word, which has become widely recognized, reflects Newfoundland’s unique cultural heritage and its influence on English vernacular.
In Bill Bryson's "Made in America," this comment serves as a reminder of how language evolves and how certain terms can take on a life of their own. The enigma surrounding the word's origins encourages curiosity about the complex interplay between language and culture, emphasizing that even seemingly simple words can carry deep historical significance.