Have you pondered questions such as where did the expression "OK" came from, or what the longest word in the English language is? Ponder no more, because one of the world authorities on the English language, the Oxford Dictionary, has released a series of videos that give some fascinating insight. Take a look:
1. Where did the expression "OK" come from?
2. What is the longest word in the English language?
3. Exactly how many is a billion?
4. Is the letter Y a vowel, a consonant, or both?
5. The Origins of "Nicotine", "Silhouette" and "Leotard"
Funny: When Words Sound Alike With Different Meanings
Homophones are words that sound exactly the same, but aren't spelled the same and mean something different. Here are 20 that are the wordiest of words.
What Made the Merriam-Webster Dictionary Last So Long
How do new words get added do the dictionary? Watch the surprising history of the Merriam-Webster Dictionary to find out...
English Vocab History: Few Can Pass This Vocabulary Quiz?
These 14 words have really strayed away from their original meaning, can you guess what words like 'girl' and 'clue' used to mean?
8 Ordinary English Words With Surprisingly Spicy Origins
The origins of all these 8 seemingly innocent words - e.g. gymnasium, avocado, and nice - are not for the faint of heart, as they're quite naughty!
How Did European Countries Get Their Names?
Did you know that the word Spain, the name of the country, is translated from Phoenician as "the land of rabbits?"
13 Funny Palindromes That Will Make You Giggle
People have been enjoying palindromes for centuries - here are 13 funny examples that are sure to make crack you up.
The Dark and Fascinating History of the Romanov Family
For more than three hundred years, the Romanov family had absolute power over Russia, this is their fascinating story.
Take a Look At These Mind-bending Optical Illusions
Optical illusions are a great ways of showing how the mind can play tricks on you, and the ones you're about to see are no exception.
The Precious World of Jewelry: Art, Care and Tips
Admire a world of jewelry, from the most creative, to the most valuable and the most expensive, learning a few handy tips in the meantime...
These Victorian Era Facts Are Instantly Fascinating
An era of 74 Years in English history, the Victorian era is one of the most interesting periods in history.
Ten Reasons Why Japan's Schools Are Spectacular
How is it Japan is so special? Perhaps it is all down to their unique education system. Here are 10 amazing things about Japan's schools you never knew!
14 Movie Recommendations You Won’t Want to Miss
Which films deserve to be added to your watch list? Here are 14 suggestions (with trailers) that are sure to inspire and emote you.
Enter Buster Keaton: The Founding Father of Visual Comedy
Discover more about the founding father of visual cinema, Buster Keaton.
These Tips Will Help You Start Reading Again
Reading skills not as strong as they were in the days of yore? Here are my tried-and-true tips to help you get back on the reading horse.
How Did We Invent the Dollar? Learn Its Meandering History
In this video, we will learn a short history of the U.S. Dollar.
Rare Photos Showing What Flying on the Zeppelin Was Like
Rare photos showing why flights on the Zeppelin and Hindenburg were expensive.
15 Amazing Facts That Knocked Me Over with a Feather
The world always fascinates me and everyday I learn something new. Here are 15 facts and stories to give your brain a real workout. Which of these tidbits blows your mind most?
Have You Been Believing These Christmas Myths Too?
Read on for several myths about Christmas stories and traditions.
Hilarious: The Best Comebacks in History!
We often think that the art of insulting is mostly born of modern times. But we'd be mistaken...
Listen to the Enchanting Notes of the World's Oldest Songs
In this article, we will be talking about the oldest known pieces of music ever found.
12 Genius Ancient Chinese Inventions We Use to This Today
In this article, we'll focus on 12 surprising everyday items we all use that got their start many centuries ago in Ancient China...
Full Documentary: The Real Story of Thanksgiving
Discover the real history behind the most popular holiday in the USA, through this fascinating documentary, courtesy of the History Channel.
A Few Beautiful and Flowery Thoughts on Positivity...
In life, you have to give yourself the space to allow your beautiful, positive thoughts to bloom like a beautiful flower. Watch this video to understand more.
Nostalgia: 50 Beautiful Faces We'll Never Forget...
Nostalgic faces from the golden ages to the modern ages.
This Brilliant Talk Taught Me to Let Go of My Delusions
Isaac Lidksy has had quite an amazing life of success, which he puts down to a stunning realization that blindness gave him. Watch. You won't be disappointed.
Dare You Enter 7 of the USA's Most Haunted Houses?
Dare you read all about 7 of the United States most terrifying properties?
You’ll Love Learning New Things With These Awesome Charts
It's time for a brand new collection of fascinating charts and guides.
I've Never Heard This Amazing Tale From the 2nd World War
This is going to be one of the most amazing stories you've ever heard. I guarantee it.
Cousteau: The Man Who Revolutionized Diving Forever
The life and works of Jacques-Cousteau, a man who single-handedly revolutionized diving technology and research
The Grisly Origins of Madame Tussaud's Wax Empire!
Ever wondered how Madame Tussaud's became the most famous waxmaker in history? Well, if you did, you need wonder no more!
The 10 Most Powerful Regrets People Have at the End
What are the 10 biggest regrets people have at the end of their days? Find out the truth...
Things You Don’t Know About History’s Famous Artifacts
Wow, history really is an endless treasure trove of knowledge!
Hark Back to Meiji-Era Japan With These Stunning Pictures
The Meiji Era was a time of great change for Japan, transforming from a feudal state into a capitalist, imperialist one. Take a look at these stunning pictures.
8 Essential Greek Philosophy Books You Shouldn't Miss
Here is your best chance for understanding Greek philosophy and its history.
Watch Andrea Bocelli and His Daughter Perform "Hallelujah"
Watch the legendary singer Andrea Bocelli perform a beautiful rendition of the famous song "Hallelujah" with his little daughter.
12 of the Most Fascinating Creatures in Norse Mythology
The world of Norse mythology is full of bizarre mythical creatures. Let’s take a look at the most fascinating ones.
The MOST Shocking False Etymologies in English
If a word's history sounds too good, it probably is.
Nostalgia - '70s Teenagers Recalling the Good Times
These groovy 70's teenagers, now proud parents and grandparents, sit for a chat with their younger relatives to compare adolescence now and then.
Find Humor & Inspiration in These Douglas Adams Quotes
May you find inspiration and humor in these quotes by Douglas Adams.
How 10 Ordinary English Idioms and Phrases Began...
Many English phrases and idioms have fascinating histories behind them, here is a selection of 10 astounding examples.
10 Cool Maps That Show How Much Unpopulated Space There Is
These maps will utterly surprise you when you realize just how unevenly the world's population is spread out. Most of the world is quite free of people!
I Wish They Taught Me These Math Tips at School
Bad at math? Learn how to use these quick and easy methods.
21 Tips to Make Your Golden Years the Time of Your Life
Many seniors will offer a different piece of advice on life. This collection of tips will allow you to live the most wondrous golden years imaginable.
Life Has Changed a Lot Since These Photos Were Taken
These historic photos capture the everyday experiences of the last century, reminding us how much the ordinary things in life have changed.
WATCH: Old Hollywood Legends Bring 'Uptown Funk' to Life
These vintage stars grooving to 'Uptown Funk' will make your day.
Each Of These 35 Places Represents a Worldly High or Low
When it comes to records, these countries and cities stand at the top (and bottom) of the tree.
10 of the Most Spectacular Royal Crowns in the World
Crowns have long been seen as a strong symbol of power and wealth. Here are some of the world's most recognized crowns and tiaras.