This author has collected unusual words and their meanings and origins for his own amusement, and shares them here for other word-lovers to enjoy. Behind the Name Discover the meaning and origins of many first names here. A Bird in the Hand Read the fascinating story of this phrase at this site.
Clouds Find the origins of the names of the various kinds of clouds here.
Every week, this online column takes a look at a word or phrase in common usage. Sometimes the question is one of grammar or spelling, but often the article has to do with the origin of the word or phrase. Readers are encouraged to contribute suggestions for words or phrases to be discussed. Cool Word of the Day Learn the meaning and origin of a new interesting word every day, and check the archives for many words that have been explored over the last three years. While this site is intended mainly for students of English as a second language, the word origins found here are interesting for native English speakers also.