Word of the Day
estival
adjective
pertaining or appropriate to summer
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Why Dictionary.com chose estival
More about estival
- First recorded in Middle English between 1350–1400.
- From Late Latin aestīvālis, equivalent to Latin aestīv(us), “of or relating to summer” + -ālis, -al1.
- Also spelled as aestival.
EXAMPLES OF ESTIVAL
- They enjoyed the estival breeze while having a picnic by the lake.
- The estival heat radiated off the asphalt, making the city feel like an oven.
incontrovertible
adjective
not open to question; indisputable
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Why Dictionary.com chose incontrovertible
More about incontrovertible
- First recorded in 1640–50.
- Formed from in-3 + controvert (“argue against”) + -ible.
EXAMPLES OF INCONTROVERTIBLE
- The lawyer’s argument was backed by incontrovertible facts, leaving no room for doubt.
- The scientist presented incontrovertible evidence that supported her groundbreaking theory.
elevenses
noun
a midmorning break for refreshments
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Why Dictionary.com chose elevenses
More about elevenses
- First recorded in 1840–65 and chiefly in British English usage.
- Originally a dialect of elevens, meaning “an eleven-o’clock meal.”
- Doubly pluralized form of eleven, perhaps as ellipsis of eleven hours (eleven o’clock).
EXAMPLES OF ELEVENSES
- During elevenses, the hikers rested and refueled with some fruit and nuts before continuing their trek.
- Every day, she looks forward to elevenses, a brief respite from her busy schedule.
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