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.
When GH Says F: Why Does This Occur?
We're meeting up on the corner of history and linguistics to learn why GH is pronounced as F.
5:23
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...
This is the Cheekiest Dictionary
If you think dictionaries were dry and pedantic, you'd be right. That is, they were, until these cheeky definitions came along.
8:01
Why Did We Start Going to the Beach For Fun?
Did you know that going to the beach for recreation is a relatively new invention? For most of human history, the concept simply did not exist...
What is the Troxler Effect and How Does it Affect You?
Learn about Troxler's effect and the optical illusions it creates in life.
These Huge Hairdos Will Make You Glad It's Not the 1960s!
People have always been extremely dedicated to their appearance, and nothing exemplifies this better than 1960s hairstyles. Take a look at this huge hairdos!
10 Fascinating History Facts You Probably Didn’t Know
In this article, we collected 10 absolutely fascinating historical facts, many of which touch upon the unexpected origins of concepts like New Year's resolutions.
16 Delightful Hidden Details Found in Everyday Objects
Sometimes, when taking a closer look, seemingly-ordinary objects may reveal cool little hidden details, as these photos prove.
3:22
This Hilarious Song Perfectly Sums Up My "Efficient" Memory
This hilarious song perfectly sums up or senior moments.
48:04
Documentary: Uncovering the Mystery Surrounding Pompeii
This fascinating documentary reveals the terrible truth of what happened to the people of Pompeii on that fated day...
You Don't See a Lot of Vintage Portraits Like These...
In this post we will give you a swift glimpse of the portrait collection of one of the leading photographers of 19th-century Washington.
The Story of the Muslim Country that Saved Jews In WWII
In the following article, we will help you get to know better the amazing story of the rescue of Jews that took place in Albania, the important cultural principles that led to it, and the stories of 3 heroes who made sacrifices and took enormous pers
15 Perceptive One-Liners by the Great Charles Darwin
Here are some profound pieces of wisdom from Charles Darwin, the father of evolution.
3:00
This Nonagenarian Gymnast Will Leave You Speechless
Johanna Quaas, at the grand old age of ninety-one, is the world's oldest gymnast. In this video, she showcases her skills - be prepared to be amazed!
The Astonishing Life and Philosophy of Ludwig Wittgenstein
It is the true story of Ludwig Wittgenstein, the man who sat in the same classroom as Adolf Hitler, became the protégé of the philosopher Bertrand Russell, and changed the face of 20th-century philosophy
Service Dogs Are the Most Loyal & Courageous of Creatures
These 20 photos stand as a testament to the courage and devotion of service dogs, which have fought with and served humans throughout our history.
6:56
The Fascinating Tricks Behind 1920 Movie Stunts
Prepare to be amazed by the masters of 1920s movie magic.
Where Did Famous Tongue-Twisters Come From?
Many traditional tongue twisters have long histories full of unexpected twists and turns - not unlike the acrobatics our tongue goes through as we pronounce them.
7 Guns that Changed History
This article explores famous firearms’ backstories, the events they were part of, and the legacies they left behind.
22 Old Photos That Really Make History Come Alive
Looking through these old black and white photos you can really learn a lot about history and the world. These 22 photos generates that mind-blowing spark and teaches you something new.
16 Wonderful Japanese Ideas We Should All Start Copying
The Japanese are unique. Their ways seem perfectly designed to help the population live happy fruitful lives. Here are 16 cool Japanese things we should copy.
View Before and After Pictures of People - 30 Years Apart!
A photographer tracked down his subjects from way back when for a reunion shot involving people he hadn't seen in 30 years. Take a look at the amazing results.
East India: The Story of the Richest Company in History
How did the East Indian Company gain and consolidate its power and profit? All is revealed here.
21:24
True Crime Story: The Shotgun Booby-Trap
The case of Bertha Briney and the house that was booby trapped with a shotgun...
The 7 Most Popular Books Ever Sold
In this article, we set aside the Bible and focus on seven other books – from novels to reference works – that have achieved extraordinary global popularity.
12 Unique Valentine’s Day Traditions From Around the Globe
This article is dedicated to unique traditions different cultures have for Valentine's Day. Some of these will surely surprise you...
11:54
The Fascinating Story of How Brazil Became a Country
In this video, we’ll explore the key events, influential figures, and socio-political dynamics that shaped Brazil into the vibrant nation we know today.
15 Movie Facts That Will Make You Want to Watch Again...
hese facts can change the way you look at iconic moments, reveal unexpected connections, or show just how inventive filmmakers had to be.
The World Never Ceases to Amaze Us with Its Unusual Sights
This photo collection will take you on a tour through some of the most unbelievable sights around the world - something we all could enjoy these days!
The 10 Greatest British Monarchs in History
Do you know about the greatest monarchs in British history? Don't fret if you don't, because you're about to learn all about them right now.
These Are the Most Expensive Liquids in the Entire World
The world's most expensive liquids are incredibly valuable for a variety of reasons. Discover what they are and why they're so valuable in this list.
10 Blood-Curdling Facts From Modern Life and History
These 10 creepy facts will send shivers down your spine!
16 Jaw-Dropping Archeological Finds
Even if you weren’t a fan of the subject back in school, you’ll love the visual history lesson we prepared for you today.
8 Most Expensive Auction Items Sold in the Last Decade
This article explores the seven most expensive items sold at auction between 2015 and 2025
7:00
The Red Baron, the Famous and Deadly WWI German Pilot
The story of the Red Baron, a celebrated pilot of WWI and a legendary fighter.
These Foods Are Considered Bad Luck on New Year’s!
It's considered extremely unlucky to eat these foods before the New Year.
The Fascinating Last Words of Famous Historical Figures
Some of the most important figures in world history, along with some of the most notorious, had some fascinating things to say just before they left this world.
7:19
Palm Oil Is the Cheapest Plant Oil on the Planet, But Why?
A major reason why palm oil is so ubiquitous is that it's so cheap. Why is there so much controversy around this oil, then, and how is it related to its cost?
8 Well-Known Mysteries We Never Knew Had Been Solved
Uncovering the the secrets behind popular ‘unsolved mysteries’.
11:28
Weaponry in the Middle Ages Was Truly Fascinating!
Weapons in the Middle Ages were truly unusual and extraordinary. Some were so remarkable that they sound made up!
10 Popular Foods That Were Discovered in Unusual Ways
This article takes a look at the unexpected origins of some famous food products.
These 10 Habits Will Make You Look Younger & More Radiant
These 10 simple daily habits can help you feel and look more radiant and youthful
So Long, Pope Francis: The Story of a Beloved Pope
Let's have a look at the remarkable life and legacy of Pope Francis, exploring the experiences and values that have shaped his papacy and inspired a global community.
You'll Need a Second Look For THESE Photos...
These fascinating photo illusions will make you believe like you're seeing one thing, but they actually depict something very different
0:44
Baby Ducks Make for Poor Students!
Poor Little Duckling Trying to Stay Awake...
15 Quotes by Meryl Streep That Inspire Everyone
Meryl Streep, the queen of acting, has shared many wonderful words on life and success that everyone will find inspiring.
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