I've really been enjoying the Monstrum series on YouTube, produced by PBS. They recently announced a spin-off show (of sorts), called Otherwords, exploring weird-word etymologies. For the first episode, they explore the origins of the word "monster."
Image: YouTube
The origins of the word "monster"
The Viking influence on the English language
Skill. Skull. Shirt. Skirt. Are. Them. Take. And maybe not surprising, a lot of words for violence: slaughter, ransack, club, knife, berserk. In this RobWords video, Rob looks at the significant influence of Old Norse on Old English and the many words we still use today that are of Viking origin. Thumbnail: Illustration from Miscellany… READ THE REST
The second T in Toronto is silent—isn't it?
Did you know the second "t" in Toronto is silent? I didn't (either?) for about 80% of the time of my existence on the earth – the beginning marked by my birthday. The accurate pronunciation, in any accent, is "Toronno. Or Churrano. Or even Trawna," not Toronto with a pair of hard "t's", noted Lauren… READ THE REST
The surprising history of giving someone the finger
Jerry Seinfeld has a funny bit (below) in which he reveals the absurdity of giving the finger: "Someone shows me one of their fingers, and I'm supposed to feel bad." Of course, it isn't just any finger—it's THE finger! And in the video above, we learn the fascinating history of why this particular gesture is… READ THE REST
This utility knife makes a great addition to your EDC — and it's over 40% off
A sharp, reliable knife is one of those tools most folks don't think about carrying around, but there are countless everyday situations where a blade might be useful. You can use it to slice through hard-to-open packages, start fires, clear brush while hiking, cut food during camping trips, and much more. Still, a utility knife can be… READ THE REST
Refurbished savings: Tough stains don't stand a chance against this Shark steam mop
Is there any feeling as satisfying as the one you get after demolishing a tough stain? A clean house is a happy house, but anyone who's only wielded a vacuum cleaner or a broom knows it's surprisingly hard to maintain that aura of cleanliness for more than a moment. All those cleaning supplements can add up; the last element you're… READ THE REST
Sleep more soundly than ever on ethically-made luxury bedding, available for $189
Everybody likes to add a touch of luxury to their lives, right? The good news is it doesn't have to be expensive to do that. Adding a little luxury to your day can be as easy and affordable as getting amazing bedding for a great price. The Cariloha Classic Bamboo Bed Sheet Set offers the same experience as most high-end bedding… READ THE REST
