18. The Origin Of The Word Dinosaur
British paleontologist and naturalist Richard Owen coined the term “dinosaur” in 1842, even though he was a controversial figure. The multi-talented scientist disbelieved Darwin’s theory of evolution, and many called him an anti-evolutionist. Nevertheless, he made history by coining the term that means “terrible lizard”, which was intended to convey their majesty and size–he could have picked a less frightening term.