Word of the Day

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.

Though less common than "peer," compeer has been around since the Middle Ages to describe colleagues and other respected equals. When you want to highlight not just equality (like "peer") but also a sense of companionship or camaraderie, compeer is the word you can count on — just like that great coworker!