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Uncommon Trivia and Buzzworthy Topics in the English Major As an English major, you may know a lot about Shakespeare, Hemingway, and Austen, but there are still some hidden gems of knowledge that not everyone is privy to. From bizarre etymologies to uncommon literary devices, here are some of the lesser-known facts in the world of English: Did you know that the word "girl" originally meant "young person of either sex"? It wasn't until the 16th century that it became exclusively feminine. Similarly, "swimsuit" used to be called a "bathing costume," and "boob tube" referred to a tight-fitting top worn by men in the 1950s. Ever heard of "apophasis"? It's a rhetorical device where you bring up a subject by denying that you're going to talk about it. For example: "I won't even mention the rumors about my competitor being a convicted felon." Pretty sneaky, huh? If you're looking to impress your friends with a fun party trick, try this: ask them to name the longest word in the English language. They might say "antidisestablishmentarianism" or "sesquipedalian," but the real answer is "pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis," a term used to describe a lung disease caused by inhaling fine silica dust. As for the buzzworthy topics in the English major, there are a few trends that have recently gained traction online: Diversity and inclusivity in literature: With the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement and other social justice efforts, there's been a renewed interest in books that showcase the experiences of marginalized groups. This includes works by authors of color, LGBTQ+ writers, and disabled writers, among others. Eco-criticism: As the effects of climate change become more and more apparent, some scholars are turning their attention to how literature can address ecological issues. This involves examining works that portray nature, animals, and the environment, as well as exploring how literary techniques can be used to promote environmental awareness. Fan fiction: Although it's been around for decades, fan fiction has exploded in popularity thanks to the internet. English majors are often drawn to this genre because it allows them to explore their favorite characters and worlds in their own creative ways. Some fanfic writers have even gone on to publish original works based on their fanfic ideas. Of course, these topics are just a few examples of the many fascinating and meaningful discussions happening in the world of English. Whether you're a grammar nerd, a literary theorist, or just someone who loves a good story, there's always something to explore and discover in this field. So keep reading, keep writing, and keep learning about the wonderful world of English.