Files On 'Etymology'
Cops: Origin Of The Police Slang Term Explained
In this article, learn the fascinating facts behind how our modern police force evolved and why police are called cops in the modern slang dictionary.
The Fascinating Origin Of The Term 'Jackpot' In Expressions And Gambling
What's the origin of the word 'jackpot'? Well, the term jackpot has always been associated with gambling and it dates back to the early 1800's.
Origin Of Sir And Ma'am
Port And Starboard: Why Ships Don't Use 'Left' And 'Right'
Starboard has its origin in Old Norse and right-handedness, while the left side (Port) is where ships dock.
The History Of The Hammock: What You Didn't Know
What is the origin of the weird word 'hammock'? How did the modern hammock we know and love today evolve over the centuries? What, if anything, is different about today's hammocks as opposed to early hammock designs?
How Koi Fish Got Their Name
Koi are essentially ornamental versions of carp that, through time and color mutations, began displaying colors beyond that of the drab brown of carp.
Here's Where The State Of Florida Got Its Name
Florida comes from the Spanish name 'Pascua Florida' meaning 'flowery festival'. This is a holiday in Spain that the state was named after.
Ravens Find A Haven... In Baltimore
How The Democrats And Republicans Got Their Logos (Donkey and Elephant)
How did the Democrats and Republicans get their donkey and elephant logos? The history and origin of these logos might surprise you.
Shedding Some Light On The Moon: Blue Moon Vs. Harvest Moon
Ham Radio: A Pig Pile Of Amateurs
Pass The Buck... And The Responsibility
The Fascinating Origin Of The Term 'Sabotage'
The term 'sabotage' has a fascinating history and origin that you probably weren't aware of. Let me explain.
Starting 'From Scratch'
The Origin Of LEGO: Who Invented It?
Since its humble origin in a small woodworking shop, LEGO has become a household name in children's toys.
Here's Where The Expression 'On The Wagon' Originated
It's said that if you're abstaining from drinking alcohol, then you are effectively on the wagon. Here's where this expression originated.
Why We Call Tips (Gratuity) 'Tips': Origin Of The Term
The slang term for gratuity (tips) actually dates back to the 1600's when the word for 'to pass' or 'to give' was used.
Where 'Caught Between The Devil And The Deep Sea' Came From
Like many phrases, there is no hard and fast explanation for 'caught between the devil and the deep sea' but there are some popularized meanings.
Where Did The Term 'Loose Cannon' Come From?
The term loose cannon, which refers to a person being out of control and able to cause harm or damage, has a nautical origin.
Tarheels Of North Carolina
Best Theory For Where The Term 'Whole Nine Yards' Originated
There are a few competing theories as to the origin of 'whole nine yards', but perhaps the most plausible comes from WWII.
