21 French Names You’re Probably Mispronouncing
The pronunciations of names like ‘Yves’ and ‘Geneviève’ aren’t hard once you’ve heard them a few times.
2023-10-24 00:20
What Are Those Red and Green Lights on Curling Stones?
Olympic curling stones are pretty self-policing—here's what those green and red lights can tell you.
2023-10-23 20:48
Disinformation vs. Misinformation: What’s the Difference?
The difference between misinformation and disinformation boils down to the intent behind it (or lack thereof). Plus, a handy trick for knowing which term to use when the time comes.
2023-10-20 00:27
Why Are Some Liquors Called “Spirits”?
One theory suggests that we call liquor 'spirits' because of alcohol’s association with one spirit in particular: the Holy Spirit. But there are other theories.
2023-10-17 00:19
Why Do We Say “Trick or Treat” on Halloween?
The origins of the phrase (indirectly) involve smelly cabbage, Donald Duck, and several Canadian journalists.
2023-10-06 22:28
Why Do Most Lemons Have Seeds, While Most Limes Don’t?
The answer lies in their chromosomal makeup.
2023-10-06 01:50
How Do Rocks, Metal, and Other Foreign Materials Get Into Our Food?
A bacteria-related food recall is troubling but understandable. It’s a little weirder when one involves golf balls.
2023-09-25 21:25
Why Do Dogs Scratch Their Beds Before Lying Down?
Your dog’s instinct to furiously dig at their bed before falling asleep would make a lot more sense in the wild.
2023-09-19 03:49
Why Do Cats Respond to “Pspsps”?
Cats and “Pspsps” go together like toddlers and the crinkling wrapper of a candy bar that you were trying to eat in secret. What gives?
2023-09-18 21:27
The Real Reason Water Polo Players Wear Those Caps
Spend a few minutes watching Olympic water polo, and you’ll realize the players' bonnets have holes in them. If they’re not keeping water out, what are they for?
2023-09-10 20:50
How Old Is Barbie Supposed to Be, Anyway?
It’s often said that Barbie is 19 years old, but the answer is a little more nuanced than that.
2023-09-05 22:47
What’s the Difference Between Bison and Buffalo?
In the U.S., the terms ‘bison’ and ‘buffalo’ are used interchangeably—but they’re actually two different animals. Here’s how to tell them apart.
2023-08-29 21:59