BIG QUESTIONS

Where Does the Easter Bunny Come From?

Where did the idea for a rabbit that gives away eggs really come from? Trace the origins of the Easter bunny, from pagan festivals to the influence of 18th century German immigrants in America.

Why Do We Call It a ‘Cottage Industry’?

The term is often applied to everything from Etsy shops to trendy businesses. But what does ‘cottage industry’ really mean?

Parrots are among the longest-living birds.

How Long Do Birds Live?

A single number for birds’ lifespans is difficult to pin down, but the ability to fly is one of the keys to their longevity.

Travelers can be superstitious. So can airlines.

Why Is Row 13 Missing on So Many Airplanes?

Superstition isn't the only reason you can't sit in 13A.

Flat white coffee is a relatively recent addition to coffee menus.

What Is 'Flat White' Coffee?

Flat white coffee combines the best of a cappuccino and a latte.

St. Patty’s Day vs. St. Paddy’s Day: Which Is Correct?

You can always avoid the issue by spelling out “St. Patrick’s Day,” but here’s how to properly abbreviate it.

Why Do We Call Them ‘Dumbbells’?

The popular piece of workout gear has a pretty insulting name, and it's all thanks to a poet and scholar.

It's easy to pinpoint how the Baby Boomer generation got its name.

How Do Generations Get Their Names?

Creating generation names like the Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z isn't always a straightforward process.

Back in the day, the box office was everything.

Where Did the Term ‘Box Office’ Come From?

The origins of the term ‘box office’ will probably surprise you—it's more about box seats than those old-fashioned detached booths that look like glorified boxes.

What Are the Ingredients in a Slim Jim?

Slim Jims are made of real meat, but it isn't the highest quality.

Why Do We Scream “Geronimo” When Jumping Out of Airplanes?

Uncover why people yell “Geronimo!” when they jump—and what it has to do with a beer-fueled boast.

Who Invented Coffee?

Your daily cup of coffee has been hundreds of years in the making.

Jake Gyllenhaal stars in (another) 'Road House' (2024).

Movie Remake vs. Reboot: What's the Difference?

Pain don't hurt, but trying to understand the difference between remakes and reboots can.

What Does the Irish Word ‘Craic’ Mean?

Here’s everything you need to know about the meaning, origin, and evolution of the Irish word ‘craic.’

What’s the Difference Between Seals and Sea Lions?

At first glance, these marine mammals seem virtually identical. But take a closer look and you’ll see that the differences between seals vs. sea lions really do stack up.

Are Owls Actually All That Wise?

Though they’re excellent hunters, it turns out owls probably aren’t any smarter than a lot of other birds.

The difference between bees, wasps, and hornets is subtle.

Bee vs. Wasp vs. Hornet: What’s the Difference?

Discover the differences among these similar insects, including their diet, body size, and behavior.

Coyotes vs. Foxes: What’s the Difference—and How to Tell Them Apart

It may be hard to tell foxes and coyotes apart from far away, but there are several key differences distinguishing them.

The historic—and historical—grand opening of New York City's Brooklyn Bridge in May 1883.

Historic vs. Historical: What’s the Difference (And Which Should I Use)?

Learn when to use historic vs. historical in English language. Find out the differences and similarities between the two terms.

Shellshocked? Nah. Shell-curious? Oh absolutely.

How Do Baby Birds Breathe Inside Their Eggs?

Discover the fascinating ways eggs provide everything a baby bird needs, including oxygen through a sophisticated system of membranes and air pockets.

Why Do I Have to Pay ATM Fees?

Paying to access your own money seems wrong, but it's how everyone from your bank to your local bar cashes in.

Why Do Birds Sing at Dawn?

Uncover the secrets of the dawn chorus and why birds choose to sing in the early hours.

You can tell this is a Cooper’s hawk by its finger-like wing feathers and menacing red eyes.

Hawks vs. Falcons: What’s The Difference?

Uncover the key features that set hawks and falcons apart, including their flight patterns, eye color, size, and hunting techniques.

Why Are Black Cats Considered Bad Luck?

Are black cats bad luck? Uncover the fascinating myths and legends surrounding these enigmatic creatures and learn why they've been both feared and revered throughout history.

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