The internet has become the ultimate tool for answering our questions, especially when we encounter something unusual or mysterious. People are constantly finding odd items, objects with unknown purposes, or relics from the past, and they turn to online communities for help in identifying them. Below are 15 examples of strange objects people found, along with their fascinating explanations.
1. “I was cutting my watermelon and was confused when I saw this. Does anyone know what it is?”
This happens when a watermelon undergoes stress during its growth, often due to drought. The fruit’s internal structure gets disrupted, leading to an unusual appearance. It’s still technically edible but may not taste as good as a perfectly formed melon.
2. “I found this metal object. No text or numbers.”
This object is the closure part of a vintage purse or handbag. It would have been used to clasp the top of a small bag, helping to keep it secure.
3. “Was cleaning out a house and came across this. The little cup at the top swings back and forth. Says it’s from Japan.”
This is a bridal cup, a symbol of good luck and faithfulness in Japanese tradition. It was designed so both the bride and groom could drink from it simultaneously during a wedding toast, representing unity.
4. “Found this in our donation bin. What is this?”
This peculiar item is an old-fashioned hearing aid, a collectible piece from decades past. It looks vastly different from modern devices but played an essential role in helping those with hearing impairments.
5. “What is this sculpted ceramic dish used for? The lemons have tiny holes in them.”
This is an appetizer tray. The small holes in the ceramic lemons are meant to hold toothpicks, making it easier for guests to grab snacks without using their hands.
6. “What are these strange capsules found in the Alps?”
These capsules are used to trigger controlled avalanches. The gas and noise from the devices knock loose snow down the mountains to prevent dangerous buildups that could harm skiers and drivers.
7. “What are these smaller doors inside our hotel bathroom door?”
These are “Dutch doors,” designed for ventilation and practicality. They allow families, especially those with children or pets, to keep an eye on specific rooms while ensuring airflow.
8. “What is this thing? We received it in a goodie bag but have no idea what it’s used for.”
This is a purse hook. It’s designed to hang your handbag from the edge of a table to prevent it from sitting on the floor, keeping it clean and close at hand.
9. “What is this object I found on a beach?”
This small fragment is part of an old bone toothbrush. Before the days of plastic, toothbrush handles were often made from bone, and this is likely a relic from that era.
10. “What is this small door by the toilet with a spoon-shaped device attached to a hinge? It’s in an older house from 1938.”
This is an old toilet paper dispenser from a time when toilet paper wasn’t on rolls. The spoon-shaped device would rest on a stack of tissues, holding them down and dispensing them one at a time.
11. “Bought an old house, found this in a cupboard untouched from the 1960s today. What is it?”
This is part of a novelty disguise from a joke shop, specifically a nose and mustache that likely came with fake glasses. The hole was for attaching to the glasses that completed the disguise.
12. “Guy wearing this ankle thing… what is this?”
This is an insect-repellent bracelet. These wearable bands are designed to repel mosquitoes and other insects, making them ideal for outdoor activities.
13. “What is this tiny door on my wall below the window? 1926 apartment building.”
This is a cold box, an early refrigeration solution used before modern fridges became common. Cold air from outside would keep perishable items like milk and butter fresh during the winter months.
14. “What is this padded satin item with ribbon ties and a hole in the middle? Found in my grandmother’s things.”
This padded item is used to turn a regular wooden hanger into a satin hanger for delicate clothing like slips or lingerie. The satin covering helps prevent light fabrics from slipping off the hanger.
15. “What is this small plastic pouch with red gel and a metal disc inside?”
This is a reusable hand warmer. Clicking the metal disc triggers a chemical reaction that heats the gel, providing warmth. After use, it can be “recharged” by boiling it in water.
Conclusion: A World of Curious Objects
The internet has become an incredible resource for identifying mysterious and unusual objects. Whether it’s relics from the past, tools with forgotten uses, or everyday items that have stumped the finders, online communities are always ready to help solve the puzzle. If you’ve ever stumbled upon something strange, don’t hesitate to share it with the world—there’s a good chance someone out there knows exactly what it is!
