BIG QUESTIONS

Anxiety is a normal feeling to experience.

What’s the Difference Between Feeling Anxious and Having Anxiety?

Feeling anxious can be normal and sometimes even healthy. Missing out on life because of that anxiety is not.

The cocoon is on the left and the chrysalis is on the right.

Chrysalis vs. Cocoon vs. Pupa: What’s the Difference?

Confused about pupae, chrysalises, and cocoons? Discover the key differences between these metamorphic terms.

Why Isn’t Washington, D.C., a State?

Residents of Washington, D.C., have no governor, no voting representation in Congress, and only limited local authority. The reason is simple: D.C. isn’t a state. Let’s break down the history and future of D.C. statehood.

Both are major sources of fun, but they have their differences.

Amusement Park vs. Theme Park: What‘s the Difference?

Ever wondered if a theme park is just another name for an amusement park? Discover the real distinctions.

Is It Safe to Eat Raw Potatoes?

Snacking on a raw potato like it’s an apple is socially unacceptable. But is it a hazard to your health?

Why Is It Called a “Sledgehammer”?

The favorite tool of HGTV hosts, explained.

Is it there for aesthetic value or something more?

Why Do Electrical Plugs Have Holes in the Prongs?

The original reason electrical plugs had holes isn’t the reason they still have holes these days. Discover the history behind their evolution here.

Cats are pretty good at regulating their temperature.

How Do Cats Cool Themselves Off?

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

What Is “Gen Z Stare”?

All you need to know about the latest generational phenomenon sparking arguments on TikTok and other social media platforms, from what it is to why Gen Z is doing it.

The phrase can be traced back to a Romantic poet.

Where Does the Term ‘The Birds and The Bees’ Come From?

Birds and bees get all the action—and Samuel Taylor Coleridge was jealous. Here are the possible origins of the euphemistic phrase.

A pickleball paddle and ball on a court.

Why Is It Called “Pickleball”?

Forget what you’ve heard about a dog—here’s the real story behind the origins of the name ‘pickleball.’

Veggies and Green Goddess dressing are a delicious combination.

Why Is It Called “Green Goddess” Dressing?

Yes, it’s green, but eating it may not make you feel like a health goddess.

Why Are the Metal Bars on Some Windows Curved?

Some old-fashioned window guards look like they have a potbelly. Discover the real reason why, as well as the history surrounding these unique grills.

The Reason Why ‘Peggy’ Is Short for ‘Margaret’

Nickname origins can be tricky—but this one is actually pretty straightforward. (And it doesn't involve pegs.)

Who put the ‘patent’ in ‘patent leather’?

What Exactly Is Patent Leather—And Is It Actually Patented?

The coating protected items like boots and carriage parts from wear and tear—and looked luxurious while doing so. But who invented patent leather? And does that person actually hold a patent for it?

Sardines vs. Anchovies: What‘s the Difference?

Anchovies or sardines? We break down how these small fish differ in looks, taste, and popular preparation methods.

Why Is It Called a “Ball Peen Hammer”?

The tool name that’s long been the laughingstock of adolescents has a perfectly sensible explanation.

Is It Actually Safe to Swim in Lakes?

Swimming in lakes (or any wild water) has its risks. When in doubt, check local advisories and trust your senses. And if the water looks or smells off, you might have better luck sticking to land.

It's more than just a decorative choice.

Why Do So Many Porches in the South Have Blue Ceilings?

It’s not a coincidence that so many porch ceilings are often painted blue in the South, and the history of why is even more fascinating.

Why Are Gas Stations So Close to One Another?

Spot a surplus of pumps in one small area? You're seeing Hotelling's Law in action.

Root Beer vs. Birch Beer vs. Sarsaparilla: What’s the Difference?

These beloved sodas may seem similar, but they aren’t one and the same.

Surfers are used to getting mouthfuls of saltwater.

Why Are Oceans Salty?

The salt in the ocean comes from two main sources: rocks on land and vents at the bottom of the sea.

Crunchy. Leafy. Exploding with flavor. (Just kidding.)

Why Is It Called “Iceberg” Lettuce?

Let’s explore the origins of America's most disrespected lettuce.

Sorbet or Italian ice? You be the judge.

What Exactly Is Italian Ice—and Is It Even Italian?

Italian ice has a sorbet-like texture, but these frozen desserts really aren’t the same thing. So, where does this summer treat really come from—and more importantly, is it even from Italy in the first place?