What’s the Point of a “Wait for Green” Traffic Sign?
The meaning of the “wait for green” traffic sign is less redundant than it seems.
2023-11-28 22:26
What Does the Phrase ‘Talk Turkey’ Mean—And Where Did it Come From?
Before you talk turkey this Thanksgiving, find out what we know about the phrase’s meaning and origins.
2023-11-21 22:20
The Surprising History of the Hanukkah Dreidel
It’s often said the dreidel was a way Jewish people communicated their faith during ancient times of oppression. But the Hanukkah game is actually a lot more recent.
2023-11-01 23:21
Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt Bets AI Will Shake Up Scientific Research
Eric Schmidt is funding a nonprofit that’s focused on building an artificial intelligence-powered assistant for the laboratory, with
2023-11-01 19:59
21 French Names You’re Probably Mispronouncing
The pronunciations of names like ‘Yves’ and ‘Geneviève’ aren’t hard once you’ve heard them a few times.
2023-10-24 00:21
When Did Vampires and Werewolves Start Hating Each Other?
Their (often literal) blood feud is a relatively modern creation. So how did vampires and werewolves end up at each other’s throats?
2023-10-13 21:19
Why Do Airplanes Feel Like They’re Moving So Slowly?
You know planes cover hundreds of miles per hour. So why doesn't it look like they do?
2023-10-12 21:15
What Exactly Is Horseradish Sauce?
Prepared horseradish and horseradish sauce aren’t the same thing.
2023-10-02 21:26
How Do Rocks, Metal, and Other Foreign Materials Get Into Our Food?
A bacteria-related food recall is troubling but understandable. It’s a little weirder when one involves golf balls.
2023-09-25 21:18
Why Is Sneakily Leaving Called an “Irish” Goodbye or Exit?
What is an Irish goodbye—and why is it called that?
2023-09-21 21:21
Why Do Cats Respond to “Pspsps”?
Cats and “Pspsps” go together like toddlers and the crinkling wrapper of a candy bar that you were trying to eat in secret. What gives?
2023-09-18 21:16
How Much Does Earth Cost?
Earth may be the most precious place we have, but it isn't priceless. We know because one scientist did the math.
2023-09-14 03:22