Dear Nerds, I just learned the word “overmorrow” for the day after tomorrow. Is there a similar word for the day before yesterday? –Lynda Touart *** A NOTE: This post would have been much, much more difficult if I hadn’t just found out that the Mobile Public Library gives patrons free (!!!) online access to […]
Help me please! Me and my friend write each other in secret code. But my brother always understands!! How can he do that? And how can I stop him??? From Emma *** Dear Emma, If your brother can read it easily, then your code is too simple. Don’t worry, I’ve got your back. Ask anyone […]
Happy Mardi Gras, Language Nerd! Why do the parade “krewes” spell “crew” with a k? Thanks! Gwen H. *** Dear Gwen, Happy Mardi Gras to you too! The word “krewe” is an American Mardi Gras original. Mobile, Alabama, had Carnival celebrations waaaaay back in 1711, when the “Boeuf Gras Society” tramped up and down Dauphin […]
Dear Language Nerd, These questions people are asking you have been easy. Chump change. Child’s play. I’m not impressed. Here’s a REAL question for you, and answer it if you can! Why do we say “uh-huh” for yes and “uh-uh” for no? Edgar F. *** “I can answer that question in eight sentences!” “I can […]