Archive - On Words and Up Words

5 Preposterous Words That Wordle Will Actually Accept as Valid

New starter word: "Sloom." They can't stop you!

May 11 •

November 2024

A Watch of Nightingales: The Origin Story of Collective Terms for Animals

Plus, some truly delightful collective terms for people, from a “rascal of boys” to a “superfluity of nuns.”

Nov 24, 2024 •

The Surprising Origins of Some Very Famous Pen Names

Or, why Lewis Carroll was almost called Edgar Cuthwellis.

Nov 3, 2024 •

September 2024

June 2024

OK, ok, O.K., okay, Ok! Which is it?

And what does it even mean?! A brief celebration of the most common word no one knows how to spell.

Jun 9, 2024 •

April 2024

My Favorite Cryptic Puzzle in a Long Time

Every now and then, something comes along that breaks the mold.

Apr 7, 2024 •

March 2024

February 2024

These Common Words Are the Result of a Hilarious Misunderstanding

I’m calling them “Splittybits.” Arrest me if you want to.

Feb 11, 2024 •

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