Ellen Gutoskey
Joined: Jun 24, 2019
Ellen Gutoskey is a Mental Floss staff writer who especially loves covering pop culture, not-so-popular culture, literature, really tiny things, really giant things, and anything that was previously thought to be lost. She used to work in publishing, she's usually laughing, and you can follow her on Twitter @ellengutoskey.
Why Is Sneakily Leaving Called an “Irish” Goodbye or Exit?
Why Do We Call It a ‘Piggyback’ Ride?
Is Humpty Dumpty Even an Egg? An Investigation
5 Beginner’s Codebreaking Tips From ‘Codebreaking: A Practical Guide’
‘Codebreaking: A Practical Guide’ can teach a beginner how to break into codebreaking (and an expert how to up their game).
Where Did the Term ‘Box Office’ Come From?
The origins of the term ‘box office’ will probably surprise you—it's more about box seats than those old-fashioned detached booths that look like glorified boxes.
The Origins of Daylight Saving Time
The long, winding history of Daylight Saving Time includes a few false starts and a cameo from Benjamin Franklin.
8 Everyday Things That Are Much Older Than You Think
Discover the intriguing origins of everything from Oreos to Juicy Fruit gum to sparkling water, exploring their hidden histories and unexpected beginnings, from vaudeville fads to accidental inventions.
What Does the Irish Word ‘Craic’ Mean?
Here’s everything you need to know about the meaning, origin, and evolution of the Irish word ‘craic.’
8 Entertaining Facts About Harry Belafonte
You know Harry Belafonte's hits—here are some facts about the artist behind them.
St. Patty’s Day vs. St. Paddy’s Day: Which Is Correct?
You can always avoid the issue by spelling out “St. Patrick’s Day,” but here’s how to properly abbreviate it.
How the Spinning Jenny Transformed Textiles and Led to Industrial Sabotage
Here's the story of why the spinning jenny was invented and how the spinning mule usurped it.
A Massachusetts Library System Will Let You Pay Fines With Cat Pictures
A cute or funny cat picture could earn you a blank slate at Worcester Public Libraries.
For Sale: Colin Firth’s Wet Shirt From ‘Pride and Prejudice’ (Lake Not Included)
You could own the costume that made Mr. Darcy’s lake scene so unforgettable.
Historic vs. Historical: What’s the Difference (And Which Should I Use)?
Learn when to use historic vs. historical in English language. Find out the differences and similarities between the two terms.
Have Oscar Nominees Ever Competed Against Themselves? Yes—Surprisingly Often
Someone gets nominated twice in the same Oscar category nearly every year, surprisingly.