Word of the Day
sierra
noun
a chain of hills or mountains, the peaks of which suggest the teeth of a saw.
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Why Dictionary.com chose sierra
More about sierra
- First used between 1590–1600.
- From Spanish: literally, “saw” from the Latin serra.
- Compare with serrate.
EXAMPLES OF SIERRA
- The winding road through the sierra offered breathtaking views at every turn.
- Adventurers flock to the sierra for its challenging trails and scenic vistas.
venerable
adjective
commanding respect because of great age or impressive dignity.
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Why Dictionary.com chose venerable
More about venerable
- First used in Middle English between 1400–50.
- From the Latin venerābilis, equivalent to venerā(rī), “to venerate, worship” + -bilis, “-ble,” an adjective-forming suffix.
EXAMPLES OF VENERABLE
- They visited the venerable ruins, awed by their historical significance.
- She was a venerable figure, known for her extensive knowledge and wise counsel.
facetious
adjective
not meant to be taken seriously or literally.
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Why Dictionary.com chose facetious
More about facetious
- First recorded in 1585–95.
- From Middle French facecieux, from facetie, “a jest,” from Latin facētia, “a jest, witticism” (see facetiae + -ious)
EXAMPLES OF FACETIOUS
- She made a facetious comment about moving to Mars to escape the traffic.
- The author’s facetious tone made the article entertaining despite the serious topic.
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