episode
episode
Pronunciation
The IPA phonetic spelling for "episode" is /ˈɛp.ɪ.soʊd/.
Ep- /ɛp/:
/ɛ/ - as in "bed"
/p/ - as in "pat"
-i- /ɪ/:
/ɪ/ - as in "sit"
-sode /soʊd/:
/s/ - as in "sip"
/oʊ/ - as in "go"
/d/ - as in "dog"
Word Form Variations
Noun:
Singular: episode
Plural: episodes
Definitions, Synonyms and Antonyms
Noun
A distinct and separate incident, event, or series of events within a larger sequence or story. This definition emphasizes a single, contained occurrence that is part of something broader.
Synonyms: incident, event, occurrence, happening, chapter, segment, installment
Antonyms: entirety, whole, continuum, totality
A single broadcast or part of a serialized television or radio program, podcast, or other media, typically released at regular intervals. This definition specifically refers to a unit within a continuous media series.
Synonyms: installment, program, show, part, segment, broadcast, chapter
Antonyms: series (as a whole), season (as a whole), complete run
A significant or memorable event or period in a person's life or history. This definition focuses on a notable personal experience.
Synonyms: experience, phase, period, chapter, adventure, incident, juncture
Antonyms: routine, monotony, normalcy, uneventfulness
In medicine, a distinct occurrence of a disease, disorder, or particular symptom. This definition is specific to a medical context.
Synonyms: attack, bout, spell, fit, recurrence, flare-up
Antonyms: remission, recovery, dormancy, health
Examples of Use
Books
"The detective meticulously pieced together each episode of the suspect's suspicious activity, building a compelling case." (from a fictional crime novel)
"Her memoir detailed a particularly challenging episode during her early career, a period that ultimately shaped her resilience." (from a non-fiction autobiography)
Newspapers
"The latest episode in the ongoing political saga saw a surprise resignation from a key cabinet member." (The East African, June 2025)
"Economists are closely monitoring the current episode of inflation, debating its potential impact on consumer spending." (Financial Times, May 2025)
Online Publications
"Fans are eagerly awaiting the final episode of the popular fantasy series, hoping for a satisfying conclusion." (Variety online, July 2025)
"New research explores how a traumatic episode in childhood can manifest in adult mental health challenges." (Psychology Today online, April 2025)
Entertainment Mediums and Platforms
Television Series: "Did you catch last night's episode of The Crown? The historical accuracy was impeccable." (Casual conversation about a TV show)
Podcast: "In this week's episode, we interview a leading expert on climate change and discuss sustainable solutions." (Introductory statement from a podcast)
Film: While films are typically one complete narrative, a documentary series might refer to each part as an episode. "The documentary series' second episode explored the biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest." (Description of a documentary series)
Video Games: Some narrative-driven video games are released in parts, with each part considered an episode. "Players are eagerly anticipating the next episode of the episodic adventure game, Life is Strange." (Gaming news article)
General Public Discourse
"I had a really strange episode of déjà vu yesterday; it felt like I'd lived that moment before." (Casual conversation between friends)
"During that particular episode of my life, I was traveling constantly and rarely stayed in one place for long." (Personal anecdote)
"The doctor said it was a mild episode of vertigo, but it was still quite disorienting." (Conversation about a medical experience)
10 Quotes Using Episode
"Every episode of life is a new lesson." (Unknown)
"This is a very special episode." (Often used in television, particularly sitcoms, to signify a departure from the norm.)
"Life is a series of episodes, each one contributing to the whole." (Original)
"And in this episode, dear friends, we learn the true meaning of..." (Often used in narrative introductions, especially for educational or children's programs)
"Each episode builds upon the last, weaving a complex tapestry of events." (Original)
"He reflected on every significant episode that had led him to this point." (Original)
"The most painful episodes often teach us the most profound lessons." (Original)
"Just one more episode," he murmured, knowing full well it would be several. (Common sentiment related to binge-watching)
"Every episode has its hero and its villain." (Original)
"A single episode can change the entire course of a life." (Original)
Etymology
The word "episode" has its roots in ancient Greek!
It comes from the Greek word "epeisodios," which literally meant "coming in besides" or "coming in addition." This was made up of "epi-" (meaning "in addition to" or "besides") and "eisodos" (meaning "an entrance" or "a coming in").
Originally, in ancient Greek tragedy, an "epeisodion" referred to a scene or part of a play that was performed between two choral songs. So, it was an "entrance" or "interlude" that happened "in addition to" the main choral parts.
When the word made its way into English (via Latin and then French), it kept this core idea of something that comes in as a distinct part within a larger whole. The first known use of "episode" in English was in the early 17th century (around the 1600s), referring to a part of a dramatic poem or musical composition that is distinct from the main theme or plot. Over time, its meaning broadened to include any distinct event within a larger series, like in a TV show or a person's life.
Phrases + Idioms Containing Episode
A strange episode: Refers to an unusual or puzzling incident.
A new episode in their lives: Marks a significant, often fresh, period or event.
Just one more episode: A common phrase used when binge-watching a TV series, implying an inability to stop.
The next episode: Referring to the subsequent part of a serialized story or event.
An unfortunate episode: Describes an undesirable or regrettable incident.
A dramatic episode: Highlights a particularly exciting or emotional event.
Reliving the episode: Recalling or experiencing a past event in one's mind.
Closing an episode: Bringing a particular period or event to an end.
A dark chapter: A period of difficulty or sadness (using a synonym for a similar effect).
A sequence of events: A series of incidents following one after another.
Vocabulary-Based Stories from SEA
Source Information
Definition of episode from The Academic Glossary at Self Exploration Academy, a Urikville Press Publication. © All rights reserved.
