Stuff You Should Know SYSK Selects: How Yo-Yos Work
Apr 13, 2019
Dive into the fascinating world of yo-yos! Discover the physics behind their tricks, including inertia and angular momentum. Enjoy a humorous journey through history, from ancient origins to modern designs. Learn about the iconic Duncan brand and how it survived bankruptcy. Relive nostalgic moments and explore how yo-yos have been used in charity efforts. The conversation blends culture, science, and delightful trivia, making you appreciate this simple toy even more!
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Yo in Harlem Nights
- Josh Clark was bothered by Eddie Murphy's use of "yo" in the movie Harlem Nights because it seemed anachronistic.
- Research revealed that while "yo" existed, its modern usage originated later, making Murphy's use incorrect for the film's 1920s setting.
Yo-yo Etymology
- The word "yo-yo" means "come come" or "come back" in Filipino.
- This meaning reflects the toy's motion of returning to the user's hand.
Modern Yo-yo Origins
- The modern yo-yo originated in the Philippines, distinct from older designs with a fixed string.
- The loose string allows the yo-yo to spin or "sleep" at the end, enabling tricks.