WORDS

11 Little-Known Words for Specific Family Members

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.

Why Is ‘Jack’ a Nickname for ‘John’?

Here’s the invisible etymology that turned Johns into Jacks.

Definition Detective Quiz #42

We give you an obscure word with four definitions—one correct, three made up. Can you identify the correct one?

Definition Detective Quiz #41

We give you an obscure word with four definitions—one correct, three made up. Can you identify the correct one?

Where Did the Phrase ‘Beat Around the Bush’ Come From?

Here’s a hint: It has a little something to do with hunting.

Definition Detective Quiz #40

We give you an obscure word with four definitions—one correct, three made up. Can you identify the correct one?

If you see a knight wearing a gauntlet, pray he keeps it on.

Why Do We Say “Throw Down the Gauntlet”?

A knight throwing down his glove in Medieval Europe meant serious business.

Why Is It Called a “Spud Wrench”?

The etymology of the ironworking tool comes with a slight twist.

The lore behind America's favorite ballpark snack is pretty fascinating.

Why Is It Called a “Hot Dog”?

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.)

The Multi-Faceted Origins of 12 Birthstone Names

Their etymologies, unearthed.

Definition Detective Quiz #39

We give you an obscure word with four definitions—one correct, three made up. Can you identify the correct one?

Despite the name, it’s completely alcohol-free.

How Did Root Beer Get Its Name?

This classic American soda started as a brewed tea made from a potentially toxic plant.

The Most Commonly Misspelled Word in Each State

Can you guess which word’s spelling your state needs to double-check?

Definition Detective Quiz #38

We give you an obscure word with four definitions—one correct, three made up. Can you identify the correct one?

12 Distant Places in the Solar System (And What They’re Named After)

From famous musicians to literary landmarks to mythological figures—and beyond.

What’s the Difference Between Great Britain and the UK?

All over the world, people use the terms 'England,' 'Great Britain,' and the 'United Kingdom’ interchangeably, even though they all mean different things.

Would You Have Passed This 1920s Pronunciation Test?

“Penelope Cholmondely raised her azure eyes from the crabbed scenario” is just the beginning.

Current baby name trends are here to stay.

The Top 10 Baby Names of 2024, According to the Social Security Administration

Check out the top baby names of 2024 and their meanings.

Why Do We Say “Uncle” When Admitting Defeat?

One theory says it comes from an Irish word; another says we have the ancient Romans to thank. But the joke is on those theories, because the real story is more complicated than that.

Definition Detective Quiz #37

We give you an obscure word with four definitions—one correct, three made up. Can you identify the correct one?

The rule has a little something to do with word order.

The Odd Grammar Rule Most English Speakers Know But Are Rarely Taught

You know this rule, even if you don’t know you know it.

Where Does the Expression ‘Pull Out All the Stops’ Come From?

‘Pulling out all the stops’ means that someone is holding nothing back and making every conceivable effort to do or accomplish something. But where did the phrase come from? Pipe organs have a little something to do with it.

Where Does the Expression ‘Put Your Foot in Your Mouth’ Come From?

Made an awkward blunder in a conversation? You might have just put your foot in your mouth. Learn more about the history and origins surrounding this commonly used phrase here.

And more importantly: Is it actually worth the higher cost?

Why Is It Called “Extra Virgin” Olive Oil?

You’ve seen that “extra virgin” olive oil label plenty of times at the grocery store. Ever stop and wonder what it actually means?