Jeremy Paxman is a British journalist, broadcaster and author. The spelling of his name can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as follows: /ˈdʒerəmi ˈpæksmən/. In this transcription, the first letter of his first name is represented as a voiced palatal plosive (/dʒ/), followed by a short e vowel sound (/er/). The first syllable of his surname contains a voiced alveolar stop (/k/) followed by a short a vowel sound (/æ/), followed by an unvoiced alveolar fricative (/s/), and finally a voiced alveolar nasal (/m/).
Jeremy Paxman (born 11 May 1950) is a British journalist, author, and television presenter, renowned for his incisive interviewing skills and dry wit. He became a household name as the host of the BBC's flagship political interview program, Newsnight, for over two decades, from 1989 to 2014. Paxman's fearless and confrontational interviewing style earned him a reputation as one of the most formidable and influential broadcasters in British journalism.
Known for his distinctive sharp intellect and no-nonsense approach, Paxman is recognized for his ability to probe and challenge his interviewees, often leaving them on the back foot. He gained recognition for his exceptional interview technique, characterized by confrontational questioning, persistence, and a relentless pursuit of answers. Paxman has interviewed a wide range of high-profile figures over the years, including politicians, celebrities, and even members of the royal family.
Aside from his work on Newsnight, Paxman has also presented and contributed to various other television programs, covering a wide array of subjects including history, politics, and current affairs. He has also authored several books, many of which focus on British history and politics. Paxman's sharp wit and his distinctive style of presentation have made him a prominent figure in British journalism, admired by many for his ability to ask tough questions and hold those in power to account.
The name "Jeremy Paxman" does not have an etymology, as it is a combination of a first name and a surname.
The name "Jeremy" is derived from the Hebrew name "Yirmeyahu" meaning "appointed by God" or "exalted by God". It has been used as a given name in English since the 13th century.
The surname "Paxman" has English origins. It is primarily found in the East Anglia region of England, and it is derived from a combination of the Old English word "pak", meaning "pack" or "bundle", and "man", indicating a person involved in a specific trade or occupation. Hence, "Paxman" likely referred to someone involved in packaging or bagging goods.
However, it is important to note that "Jeremy Paxman" is the name of a prominent British journalist and television presenter, not an etymological term.