Mental Floss

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Why do we say “add insult to injury”? Discover the surprising history behind this common phrase, which dates back to Ancient Rome.

Jane Alexander


Jerry Seinfeld with "quiz" label

You'll come away from this quiz knowing a bunch of new iconic jokes. But what makes them funny? The three reigning theories of humor could explain that.

Eden Gordon






















Mentor's guidance of Telemachus in 'The Odyssey' inspired the modern meaning of the word "mentor." This 18th-century illustration shows the pair visiting the nymph Calypso.

The word "mentor" has its roots in Greek mythology. Discover how a loyal friend of Odysseus—and the goddess Athena—gave us the modern term.

Paul Anthony Jones