Mental Floss

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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