The Big Apple:

An etymological dictionary

Investigating the origins of American words, names, quotations and phrases. Over 41,000 entries.

“OK, but first cocktails”

"But first, cocktails" is a saying that has been printed on many images. "But first, coffee" is a similar popular saying. "But first, cocktail for an hour" was printed…

“Allspice is only one spice”

Allspice is just one spice, and not "all spices." It got its name because allspice resembles three spices -- cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. "Allspice is not all spices at all, but one…

“Hamburgers are just meat Oreos”

Hamburgers have been compared to Oreos. Hamburgers are sandwiches with a meat filling, while Oreos are cookie sandwiches with a sweet crème filling. "Stuffed burgers are like meat Oreos, so…

“Oreos are just sugar burgers”

Oreos have been compared to hamburgers. Hamburgers are sandwiches with a meat filling, while Oreos are cookie sandwiches with a sweet crème filling. "Oreo's are just sugar burgers"…

“Burgers are just meat Oreos”

Hamburgers have been compared to Oreos. Hamburgers are sandwiches with a meat filling, while Oreos are cookie sandwiches with a sweet crème filling. "Stuffed burgers are like meat Oreos, so…