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.
the first sprouts or shoots of grass, corn, or other crops
Braird refers to the first tender shoots that appear when grass or crops begin to grow. Farmers watch for these early green blades as a sign that seeds have taken root. When a field shows its first braird, the growing season is officially underway.
The delicate braird of barley began to emerge from the damp soil a few days after the rain.
to pass time in idleness
To futz is to waste time, often by fussing over minor things instead of tackling something important. The word has a casual, humorous feel that's not as judgy as "procrastination." If you're figuring out the perfect arrangement of the tchotchkes on your desk instead of actually working, you're probably futzing around.
Instead of starting his chores, he decided to futz with his collection of old coins.
a place where one may range at large
A purlieu is a place where someone can roam freely. It's somewhere comfortably familiar, where you know your way around and feel at ease. Wandering around your purlieu might be just the decompression you need.
The vast meadow served as a quiet purlieu where the horses could roam all day.
loosely made or held together; shaky
A ramshackle structure is probably worn down and maybe even a bit shaky. The word might bring to mind wobbly shacks or cars that are one pothole away from falling apart. But hey, just because something is ramshackle doesn't mean it can't have character.
The traveler decided not to stay in the ramshackle cabin because the porch was partially collapsed.
practice, as distinguished from theory
Praxis is the practical application of a theory or skill, as distinguished from the book-learning behind it. The word highlights the difference between thinking something through and actually doing it. Educators and activists alike know that learning is one thing, but praxis brings ideas to life.
The medical student moved from studying textbooks to the praxis of treating patients.
