We love words. We especially love strange words. Fortunately, the English language has a limitless supply of them to tantalize even the most discriminating lexophile.
The Secret Royal Lineage of a Weird, Awkward Boy
At the time of this writing, the world’s attention is on the events surrounding the death of Queen Elizabeth II and the ascendency of King Charles III to the throne. One can’t […]
Fleas Flee the Queen’s Fierce Phobia
We all have our pet peeves. Even the most reasonable person you know is bugged by some little thing. Sometimes the little things that bug us are bugs. For most of us, […]
Why Are There No Rats in Alberta, Canada?
The official editorial position of Commonplace Fun Facts takes a skeptical view toward government programs. We adhere to Ronald Reagan’s warning, “The nine most terrifying words in the English language are, ‘I’m […]
Do You Have a Fear of Dinner Conversation?
Do you cringe at the prospect of having to endure one more social gathering? Do you find yourself tongue-tied at the seemingly-impossible task of engaging in small talk over dinner? Would you […]
The Strange Case of the Exploding Teeth
If you harbor some anxiety about visiting the dentist, you certainly aren’t alone. As many as 75% of adults report some level of dentophobia — fear of dentists. For those who dread […]
The Glass is Not Half Full if You Have Cenosillicaphobia
Are you a “glass half empty” or “glass half full” type of person? If you suffer from cenosillicaphobia, you will be satisfied with either of those scenarios. Cenosillicaphobia is the fear of […]
Whatever Became of the Fear-Filled Boy Who Was Sent to Jail By His Father?
Al was six years old when his father summoned him for a very important assignment. The older man asked the boy if he would be willing to take on an important responsibility. […]
Are You Afraid of Opinions? You May Have Allodoxaphobia
Do you suffer from allodoxaphobia? If so, you’d better stay away from social media. For that matter, it would be best to avoid conversations with anyone about anything. Allodoxaphobia is a fear […]
Are You Afraid of Not Being Good Enough?
Atelophobia. Does it bother you if you don’t know the meaning of that word? Does that somehow make you feel inadequate or less than perfect? Does the very notion of being imperfect […]
Nikola Tesla and the Pigeon of Doom
Nikola Tesla is one of the most intriguing and enigmatic characters of the modern age. His genius and eccentricity have sparked countless discussions concerning his contributions to science and his wasted opportunities. […]
The Tragic Tale of Pythagoras and the Deadly Beans
Pythagoras (c. 570 – c. 495 B.C.) is most-commonly remembered for the geometric formula that bears his name. What is less-well remembered about him is the way beans contributed to his untimely […]
You Won’t Be Tickled to Have this Feathered Phobia
If you suffer from pteronophobia, you have an irrational fear of being tickled by feathers. Learn about more strange phobias. Read more fun facts about psychology.
Life Lessons from Tchaikovsky: Don’t Lose Your Head Over Music
Nineteenth-century Russian composer Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky suffered from a strange delusion. He believed his head would fall while he was conducting if he did not secure it to his body by holding on […]
Check Out the Room Where You Can’t Check In
The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta, Canada is a magnificent, luxurious structure. Nestled in some of Canada’s most beautiful surroundings, hotel visitors can expect to enjoy breathtaking vistas, comfortable accommodations, […]