Daily Content Archive

Word of the Day
wastrel Definition: (noun) One who wastes, especially one who wastes money; an idler or a loafer. Synonyms: prodigal, profligate Usage: Despite his parents' best efforts to teach him responsibility, Sam grew up to be a wastrel who squandered his entire fortune.

Article of the Day

Giacomo Puccini Puccini was an Italian composer of operas and a leading exponent of the realistic, verismo style. Born into a family of musicians, he studied piano and organ in his hometown before entering the Milan Conservatory in 1880. His famous operas, which remain exceedingly popular to this day, include La Bohème, Tosca, and Madama Butterfly. His death in 1924 is often cited as the end of grand opera. Complications from what experimental medical treatment hastened his death? More...

This Day in History

Muhammad Ali Becomes Wali of Egypt (1805) Four years after Ali, an Ottoman army commander, helped drive Napoleon from Ottoman-ruled Egypt, he was named wali—governor—of Egypt. He helped modernize Egypt and attempted to secure its independence. Though unsuccessful, his efforts established his progeny as the rulers of Egypt and Sudan for nearly 150 years and rendered Egypt a de facto independent state. He is thus considered one of the fathers of modern Egypt. How did Ali trick Egypt's Mamluk leaders into walking into a massacre? More...

Today's Birthday

Dennis Lee Hopper (1936) Hopper was an American film actor. He appeared in two films with James Dean in the 1950s but achieved fame of his own after directing and starring in 1969's Easy Rider. His career foundered in the 70s, but important roles in Apocalypse Now (1979) and Blue Velvet (1986) helped him revitalize his career in the 80s and 90s. In addition to acting, he was a noted artist. In 1983, he checked into rehab shortly after performing what daredevil stunt involving dynamite? More...

Quotation of the Day
It is a most extraordinary thing, but I never read a patent medicine advertisement without being impelled to the conclusion that I am suffering from the particular disease therein dealt with in its most virulent form. Jerome K. Jerome (1859-1927)

Idiom of the Day
caught on the hop — Caught unawares or in a state of unpreparedness. More...

Today's Holiday

International Mayfest (2023) International Mayfest is a five-day celebration of the arts—performing, visual, and literary—held in Tulsa, Oklahoma. One of the largest festivals in the state, the event features a juried art fair and theatrical presentations. In the past, these varied works have been staged: Three Penny Opera, Our Town, and Revenge of the Space Pandas. There is also a variety of musical entertainment and ethnic foods from all corners of the globe. More...