Category Archives: Culture

Origin of Beat Around the Bush

“Stop beating around the bush and get to the point already!” is a commonly heard phrase. But why would talking around a subject be like beating around a bush of all things? What is the origin of beat around the … Continue reading

Posted in Etymology | Tagged | 2 Comments

History of Valentines Day: Why do we celebrate Valentines day?

Valentine’s Day is almost a worldwide phenomenon, celebrating romance and love every February 14th. In spite of celebrating it, many of us don’t really know the origins of Valentine’s Day nor why it’s celebrated. What is the history of Valentine’s … Continue reading

Posted in Christianity, Culture, Non-religious Holidays & Festivals | Tagged , | 9 Comments

Why do we say something is Gobbledygook? Origin and Definition of Gobbledygook

Gobbledygook is one of my favourite words because it captures the feeling of the definition so well! It’s an onomatopoeic word describing language which is unclear and confusing, like a lot of of the impenetrable, bureaucratic jargon used in politics … Continue reading

Posted in Etymology | Tagged | 7 Comments

Why do we say that we give the Cold Shoulder to someone?

When we want to give someone the message that we dislike them, or are angry at them, we may give them the cold shoulder, where we treat them with coldness, indifference and disdain. So we know the meaning of cold … Continue reading

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Why do I say Sleep tight? Origins of Sleep Tight

Good night, sleep tight, Don’t let the bedbugs bite, Wake up bright In the morning light To do what’s right With all your might. – Nursery Rhyme “Sleep tight!” is an oft-heard wish before bedtime, but why do we say … Continue reading

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Why do people go on Honeymoons? History and Origin of the Honeymoon

After the wedding bells have rung, the cake has been eaten, and the celebratory rice has been swept up, tradition dictates that it’s honeymoon time for the happy couple. But why do people go on honeymoons? What is the origin … Continue reading

Posted in Etymology, Weddings | Tagged , | 4 Comments

Jet Black: What is Jet Black?

“The breeze-tousled strands of her jet-black hair, shimmering and gleaming in the sunlight, whilst her dog bounced enthusiastically beside her, his coat shining like polished jet…” If you’ve read a fair bit of fiction, you’ll have come across the phrase … Continue reading

Posted in Etymology | Tagged | 6 Comments

Meaning of Pitch Black: Why do we say something is Pitch Black?

An inky night, a deep echo-y cave, or a look at the final frontier that is space, could all be described as “pitch black”. The phrase “pitch black” may date back to Homer’s Iliad around 850 BC, if not earlier, … Continue reading

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The Jewish Bread, Challah: Meaning of Challah and why do Jews Eat Challah?

One of the best things about Friday night for many Jews is the opportunity to revel in the delicious aroma and scrumptious sweet taste of the freshly baked special Jewish bread, challah, to mark the beginning of the traditional Friday … Continue reading

Posted in Judaism, Religion | Tagged , | 15 Comments

Why Join the Army?

When you hear the word “army”, what comes to mind? The responses you’d get from people vary widely. Some look upon the army as “the best thing that could ever happen to you” whilst others fear it and think of … Continue reading

Posted in Culture, Psychology | Tagged , | 5 Comments