etymology

We have many games to while away long days, but where do words like 'poker' and 'hopscotch' come from? Here are the etymological origins of 11 popular games.

The names were put into one of six different categories: ancestral, occupational, geographical, toponymic (or place name), personal characteristics, and patronage.

The origins of these animals’ names may surprise you.

‘Hippopotamus’ is Latin for “river-horse,” which makes sense for these semiaquatic mammals. The origins of some other animal names aren’t quite as literal.

It’s hardly the most complimentary turn of phrase, but rug rat has been a slang term for children for more than half a century.

'Flash in the pan' doesn't mean a literal fire in a pan. But good guess.

The phrase used to describe a has-been reality star or trend originated on the battlefield.

Which ones will you start using in conversation?

If you’ve ever needed a word for a piece of bread eaten just after a bath, or a term for an unpleasant choice between three options, you’re in luck.

This is no time to batten down the hatches.

A handful of centuries-old sailing words remain known only to the saltiest of seamen, but some have become part of our everyday language.

Our 2025 word-a-day calendar covers old-timey slang terms, fascinating phrase origins, and more.

‘Dumpster fire’ is just one slang term to come out of the 2000s.

In the 2000s, the internet took over, as did social media, streaming, and cell phones that were also cameras and tiny computers. The slang of this era didn’t disappoint, either: From amazeballs to mukbang and beyond, here are some terms you might not have

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

In the South, all sodas are called “Coke,” no matter what their actual name is.

Here’s a rundown of some Southern slang terms that might be beneficial to keep in mind the next time you’re visiting.

‘Ghosting’ is a very Millennial slang term.

From adulting to doggo, you can thank Millennials for popularizing these slang terms.

Everybunny wants to know why we call rabbits “bunnies.”

When it comes to abbreviations for animal names, doggy for dog makes sense, as does kitty for cat, when you think about it: Kitty comes from the word kitten. But where does bunny for rabbit come from?

Impress your green-thumbed friends with your knowledge of flower names.

With spring in bloom, let’s stop and smell the etymological roses and learn the origins of flower names like orchid, tulip, and violet.

‘Listen to me! I’m old and know things!’

The generational group born between 1946 and 1964 contributed a lot to slang.

Curious about what your state's name means?

From California to Boston, here are the literal translations of every American state and capital city name.

Pigs were involved in piggyback rides lexically much more than literally.

Whether or not you know what flambé means, be careful trying it at home.

From fold to flambé, here are the culinary terms every home cook should know.

The popular piece of workout gear has a pretty insulting name, and it's all thanks to a poet and scholar.

Pasta's journey to your kitchen table is more fascinating than you might think.

Ever wonder how lasagne, vermicelli, and macaroni came to be? Dive into the history of some of the best pasta shapes and their cultural significance in Italy and beyond.

Back in the day, the box office was everything.

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.