BIG QUESTIONS

For Pete’s Sake—Who Is Pete?

‘For Pete’s sake’ originated around the early 20th century, but the Pete in question may have lived long before that.

It's a wheel. Also a tire. With a rim. And a hubcap.

Hubcaps vs. Rims: What’s the Difference?

Get up to speed on your car lingo.

The position he's in could actually increase his chances of surviving a high fall.

How Far Can You Fall and Still Survive?

How and where you land is one of the major factors in whether you get up from the ground or go 6 feet further into it

Are There Any Synonyms for the Word ‘Synonym’?

The answer is a bit complicated.

There are two main ways for getting a pimento inside an olive.

What Are Pimentos, And How Do They Get Inside Olives?

Until the early 1960s, pimentos were sliced and then stuffed into olives by hand.

Some string theorists predict at least 10 dimensions, most of which humans can’t perceive.

How Many Dimensions Are There in the Universe?

According to string theory, there are at least 10 dimensions of space, most of which are impossible for humans to perceive.

Why Does ‘Of Course’ Mean ‘Yes’?

‘Of course’ is one of the most versatile ‘yes’ synonyms we have. But what does it actually mean?

Spoiler alert: This ladybug isn’t actually a bug.

What’s the Difference Between Bugs and Insects?

The difference between bugs and insects comes down to more than just semantics. Both terms have scientific definitions.

What Is Baby Corn, Anyway?

A baby corn plant and a corn plant are one and the same.

The Reason Your Converse Sneakers Have Extra Holes on the Side

You may have never noticed the extra holes on the sides of your Chuck Taylor All-Stars, but they serve a clever purpose.

Why Is TV Called the ‘Boob Tube’?

When TVs became popular in the 20th century, some people started calling it ‘the tube.’ That nickname soon spawned an even catchier one: ‘the boob tube.’

Plastic bags are an environmental disaster.

How Long Does It Really Take for a Plastic Bag to Decompose?

Technically, they really don't.

How Do Cats Cool Themselves Off?

Here’s a hint: It’s not by sweating through their paws.

Marylanders pledge allegiance to Old Bay.

What Is Old Bay Seasoning, Anyway?

The original Old Bay seasoning recipe had dozens of ingredients—but McCormick’s current one is shrouded in secrecy.

The location of a car's gas tank can be a guessing game.

Why Aren't Car Gas Tanks Always on the Same Side?

To annoy you? Possibly. For other good reasons, like keeping you alive? Also yes.

The Reason Why Manhole Covers Are Round

There are a few reasons why manhole covers around round. Here's how to answer if it ever comes up.

How does this image of a lotus pod make you feel?

What Is Trypophobia (And Is It Real)?

Many people report fearing clusters of holes. If you're one of them, this post is for you. But don't say we didn't warn you.

Can Doctors Self-Prescribe Medications?

Doctors can self-prescribe, but it's generally discouraged and the practice has quite a few stipulations.

Nachos Doritos seen at the grocery store.

Do Mexican Doritos Taste Different Than the American Version?

Doritos apparently taste different in Mexico than they do in the U.S., and many customers prefer the version sold south of the border.

Don't call this "barbecuing" in front of a pitmaster.

Barbecuing vs. Grilling: What’s the Difference?

Though they’re sometimes used interchangeably, grilling and barbecuing describe distinct methods of outdoor cooking.

What Exactly Is Canada Day?

Here’s a brief history of Canada’s national day—which celebrates the joining of the three original provinces—and how you can celebrate.

Why Do Marathon Runners Poop Their Pants?

Some athletes call it runner’s trots. Others refer to it as the Gingerbread Man. Here's why marathoners sometimes get off to a runny start.

New York Yankee Domingo Germán pitching a perfect game against the Oakland A's on June 28, 2023.

Perfect Game vs. No-Hitter vs. Shutout: What’s the Difference?

The perfect game is to a baseball pitcher what Moby-Dick was to Captain Ahab.

What’s the Difference Between Ice Cream and Gelato?

You know it's summer when going to the local ice cream or gelato shop becomes part of your daily routine. But what exactly is the difference between these two frozen treats?

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