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Why Dictionary.com chose fractious
More about fractious
- First recorded in 1715–25.
- Formed from fracti(on), “disposed to quarrel, brawl” + -ous, a suffix forming adjectives that have the general sense “possessing, full of ” a given quality.
EXAMPLES OF FRACTIOUS
- Managing the fractious committee members was exhausting, as they disagreed on almost every issue.
- Their fractious behavior at meetings often lead to heated arguments and disruptions.
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Why Dictionary.com chose folderol
More about folderol
- First recorded in 1695–1705.
- Originally referred to a nonsense refrain in songs; of obscure origin.
EXAMPLES OF FOLDEROL
- The article was filled with folderol, lacking any serious research or evidence.
- The politician’s speech was criticized as folderol, offering plenty of charm but no real policy.
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Why Dictionary.com chose brume
More about brume
- First used in English between 1800–10.
- From the French for “fog” and Old French for “wintertime,” brume comes from the Latin bruma meaning “winter” and “winter solstice.” It’s a contraction of the word brevissima with the root brevis, “short,” referring to the winter solstice as the shortest day of the year. Also see breve.
EXAMPLES OF BRUME
- She loved the way the brume settled over the fields, creating a tranquil and mysterious atmosphere.
- The lighthouse’s beam cut through the brume, guiding ships safely to shore.
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