Word Origins

Some of our English words have very unique and surprising origins. Find out where some of your favorite words came from.

Why Do We Say “Trick or Treat”?

Bizarre Origin Stories For Strange Idioms

The Origin Stories Behind Gaga And Other Musicians’ Names

What Is Louisiana Creole And How Was It Created?

Why Does A Cow Become Beef?

The Racist History of “Eenie, Meenie, Miney, Moe”

These Might Be The Strangest Names In Sports

Hobbies & Passions

The Good And The Bad: Words That Can’t Choose

Language Stories

Why Do We Call It A “Wife Beater” Shirt?

Singsong Phrases That Have Musical Backstories

Burpees And Other Exercises Explained

Hobbies & Passions

Everyday English Words With Ancient Arabic Roots

What Do “Numpire” and “Ewt” Have in Common?

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Where Does The Name "Saturday" Come From?

Got the fever to know more about how Saturday got its name? This article has everything you need to know about the merriest day of the week.

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Discover The Origins Of These Cooking Tool Names

Don't let scrumptious food pass you by—learn the names and origins of these frequently used cooking tools and dishes.

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English Words That Came From Hindi And Urdu

If you're reading this in your pajamas, you have the Hindi and Urdu languages to thank for that word, and for many more than you realize.

Drink up these words!