Eleven-year-old Ben from Rapid City, South Dakota, asks about sundog, a bright halo or spot near the sun caused when sunlight passes through high ice crystals. The origin of the name is unknown, although the term has been used in English at least...
Harry from Falls Church, Virginia, wonders about the many meanings and uses of the words troll and trolling. This is part of a complete episode. Transcript of “Trolls and Trolling” Hi, you have A Way with Words. Good afternoon. This is...
Thomas in Bahama, North Carolina, says his father used to say “You can’t hang around the barbershop and not get your haircut,” which seems to be a warning about being influenced by the company you keep. Similar ideas are expressed...
You may have heard the advice that to build your vocabulary you should read, read, and then read some more – and make sure to include a wide variety of publications. But what if you just don’t have that kind of time? Martha and Grant...
The children’s game of frozen statues putting players in awkward poses, which they must then hold for a while. This outdoor pastime has many variations and goes by many names, including falling statues, swinging statues, squat-where-you-be, statue...
What’s in a mascot name? Maybe you’re a fan of the Banana Slugs, or you cheer for the Winged Beavers. Perhaps your loyalty lies with the Fighting Artichokes. There are some strange names for sports team out there. But what’s even...