The last or final opportunity to get, have, do, or achieve something. Watch the video
Month: February 2021
The Flying Trapeze
The aerial performance art known as the flying trapeze was invented in France in 1859 by Jules Léotard, whose name became synonymous with the skintight costume in which he performed. During a performance, a “flyer” typically jumps from a high platform, using gravity to swing on the trapeze, or “fly bar.” He or she may perform tricks in mid-air before being caught by a partner. Today, the popular circus act is performed above safety nets, but Léotard originally practiced above what? Discuss
perpetrate
prosperity
land of milk and honey – In the Bible, a land of prosperity and plenty promised by God to the Israelites. More…
pumpkin time – The end of prosperity and a return to normal. More…
thrift – First meant “acquired wealth, prosperity, success.” More…
welfare – Originally the phrase wel fare—first meaning “happiness” or “prosperity.” More…
Lithuania Independence Day
This is a national holiday in Lithuania marking the declaration of independence from Austrian, Prussian, and Russian occupation on February 16, 1918. Today, the anniversary is celebrated with festivals and fireworks, particularly in the capital city of Vilnius. Discuss
in the last analysis
When everything has been considered; when all the facts are known or the truth has come to light. Watch the video
Fuel Cell
A fuel cell is a device that converts fuel directly into electricity, a process far more efficient than indirect methods of energy conversion, such as heating steam to turn a turbine connected to an electrical generator. Since fuel cells can be used in place of virtually any other source of electricity, they are being developed for use in automobiles in hopes of greatly reducing pollution. In 1966, automobile manufacturer GM created its first fuel cell-powered automobile. Did it work? Discuss
unavailing
Definition: (adjective) Producing no result or effect.
Synonyms: futile, ineffectual, otiose.
Usage: Immediately conscious how unavailing any struggle against such an overwhelming force must prove, he submitted to his fate.
Discuss
madness
ire, rage, fury – Ire suggests greater intensity than anger, rage suggests loss of self-control, and fury is destructive rage verging on madness. More…
mania – Based on a Greek word meaning “madness,” ultimately from an Indo-European root for “mind.” More…
rage – Traces back to Latin rabia, an alteration of rabies, meaning “fury, madness.” More…
woodness – Madness or insanity, from Old English wood, “out of one’s mind.” More…
Serbia Statehood Day of the Republic
On February 15, 1804, Serbian patriot Djordje Petrovic Karadjordje led an uprising against the Turkish Ottoman Empire to gain independence. A second uprising occurred in 1815 and was successful; Serbia formally gained independence in 1829. In 2001, the Serbian Parliament declared February 15 a state holiday to commemorate the day that the first Serbian uprising began. A ceremony is held in Orasac to celebrate the uprising and first constitution (signed in 1835). The main celebrations include festive concerts, film and theater premiers, exhibitions, and many other events. Discuss