Daily Content Archive

Word of the Day
cleaver Definition: (noun) A butcher's knife having a large square blade. Synonyms: chopper Usage: Beside this range was a butcher block upon which lay a great cleaver with a keen edge.

Article of the Day

The Brain Mushroom Despite its recognized toxicity, the false morel mushroom Gyromitra esculenta is a popular delicacy in Europe, especially in Scandinavia. Also called a "brain mushroom" because it looks like a dark red brain, it can be deadly if it is not carefully and thoroughly cooked or dried. Some experts advise boiling and rinsing it twice to draw out the toxin, but even this process can be dangerous, as the toxin can build up in the air when boiled. Why do some deny that the mushroom is poisonous? More...

This Day in History

Treaty of Waitangi Establishes New Zealand as a British Colony (1840) Though considered the founding document of New Zealand as a nation, the Treaty of Waitangi has been the subject of much debate since it was signed by representatives of the British crown and Maori chiefs in 1840. It gave Britain control of New Zealand while recognizing the native inhabitants' land rights. However, the English and Maori texts differed, leading to many controversies over its stipulations. In 1913, one of the treaty documents was restored after having been partially eaten by what? More...

Today's Birthday

Aaron Burr (1756) Before he shot and mortally wounded Alexander Hamilton in the famous duel, Burr was a well-regarded lawyer and politician, having served in the American Revolution and held various offices, including that of senator. But after Hamilton used his influence to thwart more than one of his political aspirations, Burr—then vice president—challenged him to a duel and won. Later, he was tried for and acquitted of treason for a plan to seize what areas of North America, possibly to create a new country? More...

Quotation of the Day
We must have ideals and try to live up to them, even if we never quite succeed. Life would be a sorry business without them. With them it's grand and great. Lucy Maud Montgomery (1874-1942)

Idiom of the Day
(as) mad as hops — Enraged; extremely or inconsolably angry. More...

Today's Holiday

Sàmi National Holiday (2025) The Sàmi people are indigenous to the arctic area of the Nordic countries. February 6 is recognized as Sàmi National Holiday in Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. This day is full of activities that celebrate the Sàmi culture. First celebrated in 1993, it has become a popular event and a time for the indigenous Sàmi people to celebrate their cultural identity. More...