Word of the Day
gadzookery
noun
the use or overuse of period-specific or archaic expressions
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Why Dictionary.com chose gadzookery
More about gadzookery
- First recorded in 1950–1955.
- Combines Gadzook(s), an archaic exclamation of surprise or anger, + -ery.
EXAMPLES OF GADZOOKERY
- The novel’s constant gadzookery made it feel more like a parody than a period piece.
- He can’t write a love letter without drenching it in gadzookery.
mistryst
verb
to fail to meet or to keep an appointment with someone
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Why Dictionary.com chose mistryst
More about mistryst
- Historically used in Scotland and northern English dialects.
- Combines mis-¹ + tryst, which is used regionally as a verb to mean “to make an appointment.”
EXAMPLES OF MISTRYST
- They made a pact to never mistryst each other, even if it meant walking through a storm.
- If you want people to trust you, never mistryst them — even if you have a good excuse.
demitasse
noun
a small cup for serving strong black coffee after dinner
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Why Dictionary.com chose demitasse
More about demitasse
- First recorded in 1835–45.
- Combines demi-, meaning “half;” + French tasse, meaning “cup.”
EXAMPLES OF DEMITASSE
- The old diner served espresso in chipped demitasse cups from the 1950s.
- They treated themselves to a demitasse of rich Cuban coffee after every dinner.
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