Taxonomy/Nomenclature/Etc.

The Mind-Blowing Geometric Design of Diatomaceous Earth

To the naked eye, it’s a plain white powder. But if you zoom in with an electron microscope, a stunning industrial landscape emerges.

Jul 22 •

The Shift from “Passed Away” to “Passed”

Some thoughts about a recent linguistic trend — or at least I think that’s what it is.

Jul 10 •

A Close Look at Ticket-Punch Shapes

A teeny-tiny design niche with a near-endless range of possibilities. Plus a new Inconspicuous News Roundup, and more.

Jul 8 •

In Which I Learn a New Term for a Very Inconspicuous Type of Territory

What exactly is a “pene-exclave”? Read on to find out.

Jun 19 •

A Plastic Icon Transitions to Cardboard

Are you ready for biodegradable bread clips? Plus: An inconspicuous mystery!

Jun 5 •

Is It “Baggage Claim” or “Bag Claim”?

A surprising lack of consistency has arisen at American airports.

Mar 6 •

Pretzel Logic: The Twists and Turns of an Iconic Product

The language of this classic snack has slowly been corrupted.

Aug 1, 2024 •

Of Bumps, Humps, and Lumps

A deep dive on a common but surprisingly nuanced roadway phenomenon.

Jul 16, 2024 •

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