

Ellen Gutoskey
Joined: Jun 24, 2019
Ellen Gutoskey is a Mental Floss staff writer who especially loves covering pop culture, not-so-popular culture, literature, really tiny things, really giant things, and anything that was previously thought to be lost. She used to work in publishing, she's usually laughing, and you can follow her on Twitter @ellengutoskey.


20 Showstopping Facts About ‘Center Stage’

Why Is Memorial Day Always on a Monday?

10 Wild Facts About the 2000s You Might Have Forgotten
Definition Detective Quiz #37
We give you an obscure word with four definitions—one correct, three made up. Can you identify the correct one?
Why the McDonald’s Logo Uses the Colors Yellow and Red
No, the golden arches don’t represent two giant bendy French fries on a background of ketchup, but good try.
14 Facts About Joe Wright’s ‘Pride & Prejudice’
When Joe Wright was shooting Mr. Darcy’s misty morning proposal for ‘Pride & Prejudice,’ a nearby makeup artist whispered, “I wish that was my life.”
What Exactly Is Cool Whip?
Cool Whip’s ingredients aren’t a total mystery—but they’re also not as simple as cream and sugar.
Definition Detective Quiz #36
We give you an obscure word with four definitions—one correct, three made up. Can you identify the correct one?
The Dark History Behind the Phrase ‘Canary in the Coal Mine’
Any early warning sign can be a canary in a coal mine. But the original meaning was more specific.
Definition Detective Quiz #35
We give you an obscure word with four definitions—one correct, three made up. Can you identify the correct one?
Why Baking Makes You Feel So Good, According to Psychologists
Baking can be great if you have a sweet tooth, but experts say it could also have a positive impact on your mental health for some key reasons.
The Reason Why Members of the Royal Family Must Always Travel With One All-Black Outfit
It all began in 1952 when then-Princess Elizabeth was caught without a black outfit when the circumstances called for one.
Definition Detective Quiz #34
We give you an obscure word with four definitions—one correct, three made up. Can you identify the correct one?
The Reason Why Lobsters Turn Bright Red When You Boil Them
Lobsters don’t come out of the sea looking bright red—that only happens after you boil them. Find out more about why it happens here.
Why Is Easter Called “Easter”?
The origin of the word ‘Easter’ is linked to the ancient pagan goddess Ostara. But is she actually ancient?