

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.


Can You Solve This Old-Timey Riddle? #34

12 Things You Say Without Realizing You’re Quoting Poetry

Why Is a Tariff Called a “Tariff”?
Can You Solve This Old-Timey Riddle? #33
The riddle below dates back to 1893—can you figure it out?
Why Do We Call the Country “the Boonies”?
We have the military to thank.
Where Does the Phrase ‘Going to Hell in a Handbasket’ Come From?
A popular myth says that the phrase originated due to the use of the guillotine during French Revolution—but here’s the real deal.
Can You Solve This Old-Timey Riddle? #32
This riddle dates back to 1806—can you figure out the answer?
Why Are Some Towns Called “Bedroom Communities”?
These planned communities became popular in the U.S. after World War II.
Can You Solve This Old-Timey Riddle? #31
The riddle below dates back to 1807—can you figure it out?
Can You Solve This Old-Timey Riddle? #30
The riddle below dates back to 1876—can you figure it out?
Can You Solve This Old-Timey Riddle? #29
The riddle below dates back to 1875—can you figure it out?
Can You Solve This Old-Timey Riddle? #28
The riddle below dates back to the 1920s—can you figure it out?
Where Did the Expression ‘Gung Ho’ Come From?
We get this byword for enthusiasm from an officer in the Marines named Evans Fordyce Carlson.
Can You Solve This Old-Timey Riddle? #27
The riddle below dates back to the 19th century—can you figure it out?
Can You Solve This Old-Timey Riddle? #26
The riddle below dates back to the 1600s—can you figure it out?