The words tough, through, and dough all end in O-U-G-H. So why don’t they rhyme? A lively new book addresses the many quirks of English by explaining the history of words and phrases. And: have you ever been in a situation where a group makes...
Erica in San Antonio, Texas, asks whether there’s a term for the soft noises that people make with their mouths while waiting, such as humming or whooshing, to pass the time. Another example might be that animated Typewriter Guy on Sesame...
bounce house n.—Gloss: An inflatable structure in and on which children can climb and jump. Note: Also often called “bouncy house.” «Party rental agencies, too, are trying to please customers by discounting their inflatable...