The Big Apple:

An etymological dictionary

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

Torture All Kids Severely (“TAKS” backronym)

TAKS (Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills) is a standardized test that replaced other tests in 2003. TAKS has been given the backronymic (back acronym) nickname "Torture All Kids…

Fucking Crappy Ass Test (“FCAT” backronym)

The Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) is a standardized test for students in Florida's primary and secondary public schools. The FCAT has been given the backronymic (back acronym)…

“The envelope, please” (hotel tips envelope)

Awards shows such as the Oscars (Hollywood) and Tonys (Broadway) have a person announce the nominees in a category, and then that person usually says, "The envelope, please." This…