Duct Tape
The ubiquitous duct tape has roots in the trenches of World War II. The tape was government issued and used by soldiers to keep boots and ammo boxes dry. They called it "duck" tape for it's water repellent properties. After the war soldiers brought it home and used it throughout the house including holding together heating and cooling ducts, which brought about it's current name "duct tape". There is still a trademarked brand name Duck Tape and some people have even made duct tape into a fashion statement.
