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Word of the Day

Learn a new word every day! The Dictionary.com team of language experts carefully selects each Word of the Day to add some panache to your vocabulary.


lampoon

[lam-poon]

verb

to mock or ridicule with satire

Explanation

To lampoon is to mock or ridicule using satirical humor. Think of a late-night monologue where exaggeration and humor sharpen a critique. A simple parody can be mostly innocent, but lampooning usually stings a bit.

Example

The columnist lampooned the mayor's never-ending excuses for the city's traffic problems.

temperance

[tem-per-uhns]

noun

moderation or self-control in actions, statements, etc.

Explanation

Temperance describes moderation and restraint, especially when emotions or impulses run high. It's one of the four cardinal virtues in classical philosophy, alongside prudence, justice, and courage. Always remember the value of temperance before saying something you might regret later.

Example

The athlete showed great temperance by staying calm and respectful despite the referee's unfair call.

armadillo

[ahr-muh-dil-oh]

noun

a burrowing mammal with strong claws and a hard, bony exterior

Explanation

An armadillo is an unusual mammal known for its distinctive armored shell and creative self-defense. The name comes from Spanish and means "little armored one," a fitting description for a creature built like a walking shield. When threatened, armadillos curl up tightly into a well-protected ball. Look up a video and watch it for yourself!

Example

The armadillo suddenly rolled into a tight ball, leaving only its hard exterior exposed.

birr

[bur]

verb

to move with or make a whirring sound

Explanation

To birr is to make a whirring sound, especially if it's created through some kind of rapid motion. Thanks to English's quirky spelling, it's pronounced the same as "burr" or even "brr!" Something birring might even produce a bit of vibration.

Example

The remote-control helicopter began to birr as its spinning blades lifted it into the air.

klatsch

[klahch]

noun

a casual gathering of people

Explanation

A klatsch is an informal get-together where people chat, catch up, and maybe even gossip a little. A klatsch usually has a relaxed vibe, like friends swapping stories over coffee. Your phone might be full of group texts, but there's still nothing better than a good klatsch.

Example

The new mothers met for a monthly klatsch to share stories and trade tips.