Daily Content Archive

Word of the Day
guile Definition: (noun) Treacherous cunning; skillful deceit. Synonyms: craftiness, foxiness, slyness, wiliness, cunning Usage: Her mild eyes seemed incapable of any severity or guile, and yet she has committed a murder.

Article of the Day

Night Vision Goggles Night vision devices (NVDs) are optical instruments that allow for vision in the dark by detecting visible and infrared energy and providing a visible image. Although they are available to civilians, goggles and other NVDs are typically used by law enforcement agencies and the military. Introduced in the 20th century, NVDs have been used widely since the Vietnam War. They also played a key role in Operation Neptune Spear—the raid that killed Osama bin Laden. What was the “snooperscope”? More...

This Day in History

First Issue of The New Yorker Is Published (1925) The New Yorker is an American magazine known for its sophisticated tone, liberal political perspective, varied literary fare, and witty single-panel cartoons. It was founded by journalist Harold Ross, who aimed to create a sophisticated, metropolitan magazine—in contrast to publications such as Life, which he saw as unrefined. Now one of the most respected publications in the US, The New Yorker is recognized for its strict style and high-quality content. Who is its mascot? More...

Today's Birthday

Anaïs Nin (1903) Born in France to a Spanish father and French-Dutch mother, Nin began her literary career in Paris in the 1930s but did not receive widespread recognition until the 60s. Frequently moving between France and the US, Nin was influenced by psychoanalysis and Surrealism. Her intensely personal diaries were the basis for many of her novels and stories, which are noted for their poetic style and searching portraits of women. She was also known for her relationship with which well-known author? More...

Quotation of the Day
There is nothing so dangerous for anyone who has something to hide as conversation! A human being, Hastings, cannot resist the opportunity to reveal himself and express his personality which conversation gives him. Every time he will give himself away. Agatha Christie (1890-1976)

Idiom of the Day
make like a banana and split — humorous slang To depart or leave, especially at once or in a hurry. (A pun on "to split," a slang term meaning to leave or depart, and a "banana split," an ice-cream-based dessert featuring a banana halved lengthwise.) More...

Today's Holiday

Feralia (2023) This ancient Roman festival marked the culmination of a week-long celebration in honor of the manes, spirits of the dead. It began on February 13 with the Parentalia, a private celebration in honor of deceased family members, and ended on February 21 with a public celebration known as the Feralia. This was the day on which offerings and gifts were placed on the graves of the deceased and the anniversary of the funeral feast was celebrated. The Feralia was similar to the later Christian holiday, All Souls' Day. More...