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.
loss or omission of the last letter, syllable, or part of a word
Apocope is the name for the graceful trimming of words. It's a small omission that can change rhythm, rhyme, or even meaning in writing and speech. The term comes from a Greek word meaning "a cutting off," a nod to the final letters or sounds that are quietly dropped.
The word "cinema" is an example of apocope, since it omits the end of "cinematography."
on the spur of the moment
Extempore describes actions done on the spur of the moment, without rehearsal or planning, where spontaneity meets creativity and keeps everyone on their toes. Ideas, speeches, or performances can spring to life without warning; that's extempore!
The speaker delivered a truly impressive extempore address without any preparation.
cheerful, merry, or glad
Laughter and lightness fill the air when things feel jocund. The word comes from the Latin term for "pleasant," a fitting reminder of its bright, joyful energy. When you're surrounded by a jocund group of people, it's bound to catch on!
The crowd's wonderfully jocund singing filled the stadium with a merry and cheerful sound.
a notable success
A sockeroo refers to life's wins, both big and small. Informal and energetic, this Americanism dating back to the 1940s carries a sense of surprise and satisfaction. When you want to describe your success in a fun way, sockeroo does the trick every time!
That new movie is a total sockeroo; everyone is raving about its success and impressive action.
noxious, pestilential, poisonous
Mephitic describes something that's noxious, poisonous, or foul-smelling. Often used for gases or environments, the word conveys an atmosphere that is actively harmful. It's a great word choice for when "unpleasant" doesn't go far enough.
The abandoned well emitted a mephitic odor, hinting at the poisonous gas trapped below.
