An etymological dictionary

Investigating the origins of American words, names, quotations and phrases.

Redbird and Brightliner trains

The "Redbird" trains began in the 1950s and the "Brightliner" trains began in the 1960s. http://www.nycsubway.org/faq/cartypes.htmlR-26, R-28, R-29, R-33, R-36: Mainline IRT…

Snakehead

"Snakeheads" (or "snake heads") are people who traffic in illegal (usually Chinese) immigration. Many Chinese brought into America by "snakeheads" find themselves…

THRU Streets

'THRU Streets" is a Department of Transportation program to improve the traffic flow in Manhattan. The program has been declared a success and might be expanded to other streets. The…

E-Z Pass

"E-Z Pass" (or "E-ZPass") lets you go through bridges and tunnels without stopping. Your plate is automatically recorded and you'll get a bill, but the system is designed…

Competitive Eating Contests

Eating contests have been held in New York City since at least the 19th century. A pie-eating match was held in Brooklyn in in August 1886. Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest is held at Coney…

Murderers’ Row

"Murderers' Row" is a true New York City term. It grew from the infamous "Tombs" prison (long demolished) in the 1800s. In the 1920s, "Murderers' Row" was…

New York Sack Exchange

The "New York Sack Exchange" (a pun on the New York Stock Exchange, of course) was the New York Jets football defensive front four of Mark Gastineau, Joe Klecko, Marty Lyons, and Abdul…