The Big Apple:

An etymological dictionary

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

“Vinegar (wine’s angry brother)”

The novelist Tom Bobbins wrote in his book Villa Incognito (2003): "The mystery of mayonnaise—and others besides Dickie Goldwire have surely puzzled over this—is how egg yolks, vegetable…

Colostomy Pie (Frito Pie nickname)

Frito pie is made with Fritos corn chip and chili; cheese, onions and tomatoes are often added. In New Mexico, Frito pie is served right in the Fritos bag. Anthony Bourdain, host of CNN's…

Warm Crap in a Bag (Frito Pie nickname)

Frito pie is made with Fritos corn chip and chili; cheese, onions and tomatoes are often added. In New Mexico, Frito pie is served right in the Fritos bag. Anthony Bourdain, host of CNN's…