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Why Dictionary.com chose exsiccate
More about exsiccate
- Exsiccate was first recorded around 1375–1425.
- Exsiccate comes from the Latin word exsiccātus, meaning “dried up.”
- This form can be broken down further into the prefix ex-, which means “thoroughly,” and the verb siccāre, “to dry, make dry.”
- Desiccate, “to dry up,” and desiccant, “a drying agent,” are related to exsiccate, but entered English about 300 years later.
EXAMPLES OF EXSICCATE
- With no rainfall for months, the soil in the farmer’s field started to exsiccate, making it difficult for crops to grow.
- The ancient parchment documents were carefully stored in a dry environment to prevent them from exsiccating and becoming brittle over time.
gâteau
noun
a cake, especially a very light sponge cake with a rich icing or filling.
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Why Dictionary.com chose gâteau
More about gâteau
- Gâteau was first recorded in English in 1835–45.
- Gâteau came from French and has origins in the Old French word gastel.
- Gastel is possibly similar to the Old English, Old Saxon word wist, meaning “food or nourishment.”
EXAMPLES OF GÂTEAU
- As I took the first bite of the gâteau, its light and fluffy texture melted in my mouth, leaving behind the delightful flavors of almond and apricot.
- For her birthday, she requested a decadent gâteau with layers of moist vanilla sponge, luscious raspberry filling, and a smooth cream cheese icing.
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Why Dictionary.com chose soi-disant
More about soi-disant
- Soi-disant was first recorded in English in 1750–60.
- Soi-disant comes from the French term literally meaning, “calling oneself.”
- Soi-disant can also mean “self-styled” as in, “The soi-disant ‘Man of Macaroni’ made the best pasta in town.”
EXAMPLES OF SOI-DISANT
- The soi-disant psychic predicted a financial windfall for her clients, but it turned out to be nothing more than wishful thinking.
- The soi-disant fashionista boasted about her unique sense of style, but her wardrobe consisted of outdated trends.
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