Light-hearted conversation with callers from all over about new words, old sayings, slang, family expressions, language change and varieties, as well as... more
For rock climbers, skiers, and other outdoor enthusiasts, the word "send" has a whole new meaning. You might cheer on... more
In 1944, an Italian scientist discovered a drug that he later named for his wife. His wife’s name was Marguerite,... more
In Cockney rhyming slang, apples and pears is a synonym for "stairs," and dustbin lids means kids. Plus, sniglets are... more
National Book Award winner Barry Lopez had wise advice for young writers. First, read widely and follow your curiosity. Second,... more
Thunderstorms might sound scary, but playful explanations for all those booms can help reassure little ones: How about the potato wagon’s... more
What kind of book do people ask for most often in prison? Romance novels? No. The Bible? No. The most... more
Twice a day the River Thames recedes, revealing a muddy shoreline. Hobbyists known as mudlarks stroll the surface searching for objects that... more
Many of us struggled with the Old English poem “Beowulf” in high school. But what if you could actually hear... more
The phrase old as Methuselah describes someone quite advanced in years. In ancient scripture, Methuselah was a man who somehow lived to... more
What’s it like to hike the Pacific Crest Trail all the way from Mexico to Canada? You’ll end up with... more