

Paul Anthony Jones
Joined: Jun 20, 2014
Paul Anthony Jones is a writer and musician from Newcastle upon Tyne. He is the author of word origins guide Haggard Hawks and Paltry Poltroons, and runs its tie-in Twitter account @HaggardHawks.


The World’s Worst Tourist Traps in 2025, According to Visitor Reviews

25 Words That Don’t Mean What They Used To

Can You Solve This Old-Timey Riddle? #48
How 15 Bizarre British Dishes Got Their Names
Facts to keep on hand for the next time you’re digging into a dish of spotted dick or a serving of singing hinnies.
Can You Solve This Old-Timey Riddle? #47
The riddle below dates back to 1902—can you figure it out?
What Is “Gen Z Stare”?
All you need to know about the latest generational phenomenon sparking arguments on TikTok and other social media platforms, from what it is to why Gen Z is doing it.
Why You Should Think Twice Before Using TikTok’s “Bucket of Doom” Mosquito Hack
Some swear by this summertime hack, and it does work. Unfortunately, though, the “bucket of doom” won’t solve all your mosquito woes this summer—here’s why.
Map of the World’s Must-Try Desserts, According to TikTok
You’re going to be very hungry after reading this.
Why Is It Called “Pickleball”?
Forget what you’ve heard about a dog—here’s the real story behind the origins of the name ‘pickleball.’
Can You Solve This Old-Timey Riddle? #46
The riddle below dates back to 1598—can you figure it out?
Map: American Cities With the Worst DMVs
If you’re in one of these cities, know what you’re in for before you head to the local DMV. (Plus, the cities with the best and most-improved DMVs.)
Can You Solve This Old-Timey Riddle? #45
This riddle dates back to 1959—can you figure out the answer?
The State Names That Are Hardest to Pronounce, Mapped
Plus, a map of the state names that are hardest to spell.
11 Words That Started Out As Spelling Mistakes
Language is a continual process of evolution, but these words—from pea to sherry—changed thanks to outright mistakes.
20 Baby Names at Risk of Going Extinct
Nickname-names like Ellie and Liam are in. Millennial and royal names are out. (Sorry Erin and William.)