When microphones were first invented they were fairly large – so why weren't they called 'macrophones'? And why would the person who invented the flashlight call it that? (The British call it more aptly a torch.) Many of the things in our modern society get labels and idioms that can lead to some humorous questions.
When it was first invented, wasn't the microphone really large?
What gets 'frigerated' in a refrigerator and why are we doing it again?
What is the logic in calling what obviously is a 'skyship' an airplane?
Aren't motorcycle and automobile both apt names for either a motorcycle or an automobile?
If we call a television a TV for short, why not call a telephone a TP?
Why do they call it a TV set when you only get one?
Is it okay to use the AM radio after noon?
Are escalators and elevators working improperly when going down?
Does anybody really watch a watch?
Will you find cell phones in prison?
Is a cured ham a formerly lousy actor?
Shouldn't the light from a flashlight be out in a flash?
Would a ball bearing be a dance posture?
How do you chop something with chop sticks?
When cars had running boards, did they come in board feet?
Did you ever wonder if the hand saw the same thing that the chain saw?
Before the invention of the drawing board, what did they go back to?
How come you sleep while the alarm clock is on and wake up when it goes off?
What was the best thing before sliced bread?
Is it all right to put cups in the dishwasher and dishes in the cupboard?
Who would ever want to see their kitchen sink?
Can you buy an entire chess set in a pawn shop?
Is a vegetarian allowed to eat animal crackers?
Does a glee club ever sing sad songs?
How come the doorbell is never on the door and is rarely a bell?
Isn't it ironic that a synonym for factory is plant?
If someone throws a cat out a car window is it kitty litter?
Can you use a toothbrush to clean more than one tooth at a time?
What is the sound of musical chairs?
Have you ever been alarmed by your alarm clock?
Is it good if a vacuum cleaner really sucks?
Why does a tugboat mostly push things in the harbor?
And why can't we call a restroom (where you rest), or bathroom (where one bathes), or wash room (where one washes), or lavatory (where one laves), or toilet (for personal grooming), or the men's room (where you find men) or women's room (where you find women) for what it really is – an evacuation center?