The expression to run the traps means “to perform due diligence” or “solicit a wide variety of opinions” or “investigate every angle thoroughly.” This metaphor derives from the literal sense of running the traps, which refers to hunting and fishing...
A high-schooler asks: Why do we say throw someone under the bus when we’re talking about an act of betrayal. This is part of a complete episode. Transcript of “”Throwing Someone Under the Bus” Has a Complicated History” Hello, you have A Way with...
How did the acronyms POTUS, FLOTUS, and SCOTUS for President of the United States, First Lady of the United States, and Supreme Court of the United States come about? This is part of a complete episode. Transcript of “POTUS, FLOTUS, and SCOTUS”...
A Los Angeles, California, listener says his grandmother, a native Spanish-speaker, used the word filibustero to mean “ruffians.” Any relation to the English word filibuster? As a matter of fact, yes. This is part of a complete episode. Transcript...
The word “canvassing,” as in, going door-to-door passing out political information, has an obscure etymology. It’s thought to be related to the use of canvas material either for sifting things out or tossing someone in the air. Either way, it...
Amid the rise of social media oversharing, you’ll notice at least one peculiar change: people don’t seem to write on the walls of public restrooms anymore. But if you’re in search of some good old fashioned bathroom stall graffiti, we recommend...
