What sort of language is worthy of being inscribed in stone? A frieze on the James A. Farley Building in New York City is inscribed with Neither snow, nor rain, nor heat, nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their...
Why are floors of buildings called stories (or storeys)? One theory suggests that an Latin architectural term historia once referred to the stained-glass windows or the ornate statues around the edifice. But the etymology is unclear. This is part of...
vermacular n.— «Thanks to the character-inspired icons for various Mac-related applications, there’s a new word-building form of entertainment to get bored workers through the doldrums of the day. Like a contemporary version of the grade school...
mansionization n.— «I believe that mansionization will not be a tough issue. The town clearly wants no more Mar Vista-sized houses. even those who have been reluctant to place speci ic limits in our antimansionization ordinance now seem resigned to...
What’s the best way to improve vocabulary and remember the words you learn? When a San Diego listener asks that question, Grant and Martha share vocabulary-boosting practical tips. Forget the flash cards and reach for a library card instead! This is...
officetel n.— «I live in what’s known in Korea as an “officetel” which is basically a building full of bachelor apartments with several businesses running out of the lower levels.» —“A photo every day? Why the hell not!” by William George It’s Just...