Did You Know?

The only number whose letters are in alphabetical order is ‘forty.’

Among all written numbers in English, only 'forty' has its letters arranged alphabetically (f-o-r-t-y). This coincidence is particularly interesting given that 'forty' is also unusual for dropping the 'u' present in 'four' when spelled out.

Did You Know?

‘Sarcophagus’ literally means ‘flesh-eating’ in Greek.

Early stone coffins were made from limestone thought to decompose bodies quickly. The term combines 'sarx' (flesh) and...

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The word ‘dunce’ comes from a brilliant philosopher’s name.

John Duns Scotus was a respected medieval theologian whose followers were called Dunsmen. When their ideas fell out...

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‘Disaster’ literally means ‘bad star’ in Greek.

Combining 'dis' (bad) and 'aster' (star), the word reflects ancient beliefs that celestial events influenced earthly misfortunes. This...

Read more: ‘Disaster’ literally means ‘bad star’ in Greek.