Mental Floss’s 2026 Desk Calendars Are for Word Nerds and Fact Fans of All Kinds
Our Amazing Facts 2026 calendar features fun facts from all areas, while the Word Nerd 2026 calendar is especially for language lovers.
Our Amazing Facts 2026 calendar features fun facts from all areas, while the Word Nerd 2026 calendar is especially for language lovers.
We give you an obscure word with four definitions—one correct, three made up. Can you identify the correct one?
We give you an obscure word with four definitions—one correct, three made up. Can you identify the correct one?
Let’s explore the origins of America's most disrespected lettuce.
And how do chauvinism and jingoism factor in?
The original meaning of ‘the full monty’ may involve a hearty breakfast or a three-piece suit.
Plus, a map of the state names that are hardest to spell.
We give you an obscure word with four definitions—one correct, three made up. Can you identify the correct one?
What it is, why it’s called that, and how to say it correctly.
All cheesecake is delicious. So why should you opt for New York-style over any other kind?
The Arnold Schwarzenegger–starring Netflix series takes its title from World War II military slang. Here’s what 'fubar' means.
The words we use for family members in English are specific about some things, but vague about others. These words will help fill in the gaps.
Here’s the invisible etymology that turned Johns into Jacks.
We give you an obscure word with four definitions—one correct, three made up. Can you identify the correct one?
We give you an obscure word with four definitions—one correct, three made up. Can you identify the correct one?
Here’s a hint: It has a little something to do with hunting.
We give you an obscure word with four definitions—one correct, three made up. Can you identify the correct one?
A knight throwing down his glove in Medieval Europe meant serious business.
The etymology of the ironworking tool comes with a slight twist.
Discover the curious origins of America’s favorite ballpark snack and why it’s called a “hot dog” to begin with. (Spoiler: It doesn’t involve any literal dog meat.)
Their etymologies, unearthed.
We give you an obscure word with four definitions—one correct, three made up. Can you identify the correct one?
This classic American soda started as a brewed tea made from a potentially toxic plant.
Can you guess which word’s spelling your state needs to double-check?