An etymological dictionary

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

Murray Hell (Murray Hill + hell)

The New York Observer has called the Murray Hill section of Manhattan "Murray Hell." The strip of Third Avenue, between 29th and 38th Street, just has too many young people. The horror!…

Subway Alumni

"Subway alumni" are supporters of a college team who have never gone to that college. Notre Dame had powerful football teams in the early 1900s, and the Fighting Irish often played games…

International Dance Festival

The annual International Dance Festival began in 2002. Time will tell if it becomes a New York City institution. http://www.internationaldancefestival.org/mission.htmInternational Dance Festival…

Dyckman Basketball Tournament

The Dyckman Basketball Tournament was founded by Kenneth Stevens and takes place Monsignor Kett Playground on West 204 Street and Nagle Avenue (near Dyckman Street). The Dyckman Games have been…

J & R

J & R is the electronics/music/computer giant on Park Row. It's a favorite of New York City government, located a block away at city hall. (Trademark)Word Mark J & R Goods and Services…

LoBro (Lower Broadway)

"LoBro" is Lower Broadway in Manhattan, between 8th Street and Canal. "LoBro" started being used by restaurateurs in the 1980s, but hasn't been used much since then.…

New Directors/New Films

"New Directors/New Films" is the long-running companion to the New York Film Festival. It seeks out more political films, representing many of the countries of the world.…

Carnaval Del Boulevard

The Carnaval Del Boulevard is a Dominican festival that takes place on St. Nicholas Avenue (Juan Pablo Duarte Boulevard). Mayoral candidates attended the sixth annual Carnaval in 2005, showing the…