Mental Floss

ALL STORIES

Once upon a time, there used to be B batteries, but they’re not manufactured anymore. Here’s why they disappeared from shelves.

Matt Soniak


On a cruise ship, the name ‘Oscar’ has a very serious meaning.

Whether they’re said over a PA or in a one-on-one conversation, these seemingly innocuous terms are actually codes to alert those in the know that something is up while keeping others in the dark.

Jane Alexander






A North American porcupine says hi.

Porcupines might be considered a prickly bunch, but you’ll find they're pretty docile once you get to know them.

Yelena Melnichenko














Before you start pranking, read up on where April Fools’ Day might have come from.

The origins of April Fools’ Day have long been caught up in myths and legends involving everything from mackerels to calendar switches.

Austin Thompson


Which is which?

Though they’re technically the same animal, there’s an important difference between pigs and hogs. Boars are a different story altogether.

Michele Debczak