Word of the Day

A wisenheimer is someone who can't resist making smug or overly clever remarks. The word became popular in American English as a playful label for the class clown or wise guy. Every group seems to have at least one wisenheimer who's always ready with a comeback.

Something rebarbative causes irritation or dislike instead of drawing people in. Based on the French word barbe, meaning "beard," it evokes a hostile "beard-to-beard" confrontation. From harsh words to grating sounds, rebarbative things have a way of rubbing people the wrong way.

To loll is to dangle or droop, like a dog's tongue hanging out or a person's arm dangling over a seat. The word paints a picture of something resting slack instead of being held upright. Like many words that seem to mimic the actions they describe, loll has a sound that feels as loose and unhurried as its meaning.

A corrigendum is a formal notice of a corrected error, particularly in a published work. Even carefully edited books and articles occasionally require a correction after publication. A well-placed corrigendum helps set the record straight.

To bolster is to give support or add strength to someone or something. The word's use as a verb is derived from its noun form, which is a type of long pillow that physically supports the body. A bit of encouragement can bolster confidence when it matters most.