Why Is Opening an Umbrella Indoors Supposed to Be Bad Luck?
When it comes to superstitions about bad luck, indoor umbrellas are right up there with broken mirrors and black cats.
2023-10-26 05:22
The Reason Why a Standard Piece of Paper Is 8.5 Inches by 11 Inches
The letter-sized standard actually has roots in the 1660s, when paper was made by hand—and Herbert Hoover had something to do with it, too.
2023-10-24 22:52
Why Is It Called the “Placebo Effect”?
What is a placebo? Technically, a Latin phrase meaning ‘I will please.’ It’s also a Catholic prayer and a clever insult.
2023-10-23 23:57
Do Scarecrows Actually Work?
Scare crows may deter crows and blackbirds, but you'll have to make some modifications for them to really work.
2023-10-21 04:47
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
How Does Sword Swallowing Really Work?
The ancient art of sword swallowing may seem like some sort of elaborate trick—but it’s very, very real (and very, very dangerous).
2023-10-19 08:16
Why Do We Get Shivers Down Our Spines?
You’re watching a scary movie or the music swells during your favorite song—the shiver up and down your spine is your body responding to a range of emotions.
2023-10-18 06:51
It's been 14 days without a speaker. Here's what needs to happen in the House
It's been 14 days since eight Republicans were able to bounce former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy from the top position in Congress and hit pause on all legislative business on Capitol Hill.
2023-10-17 18:23
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
RTÉ 'will be insolvent by spring' without funding
The Irish broadcaster's director general made the comments at a parliamentary committee on Thursday.
2023-10-12 18:45
Israel faces 'long, difficult war' after Hamas attack from Gaza
Militants are still fighting in Israel, says the military, after an unprecedented Hamas attack.
2023-10-08 14:53
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