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.
everlasting, eternal
Sempiternal describes something that lasts forever. Of Latin origin, it conveys a poetic sense of permanence, making it ideal for literature, philosophy, or reflection. When you want to express timeless endurance, sempiternal is your go-to word.
His sempiternal hope for humanity never wavered, even in the darkest of times.
to bear or conduct (oneself ); behave
To comport oneself is to act in a way that's fitting, proper, or dignified. Its Latin origin means "to bring together," suggesting harmony between action and character. Whether in professional settings or social gatherings, to comport oneself well is a mark of elegance.
You must comport yourself with dignity during the ceremony.
please; used to politely introduce a request or command
Prithee is an old-fashioned contraction of "I pray thee," used to politely request something. First used in the 1500s, it carries a gentle, almost lyrical tone. Whether reading Shakespeare or crafting whimsical dialogue, prithee adds a touch of historic charm.
Prithee, tell me your name.
a crevasse in a mountain glacier
A bergschrund is a deep crevasse that forms between a glacier and the mountain slope it clings to. From German mountaineering origins, the term evokes both danger and awe. For climbers and geographers alike, a bergschrund is a dramatic reminder of nature's power.
The climber carefully navigated around the deep bergschrund.
dark, dull, or dingy
Subfusc describes things that are dim, drab, or generally dreary. Its Latin roots mean “somewhat dark,” capturing that muted, shadowy vibe. From low-lit corners to colorless skies, subfusc paints a picture of gloom.
The old, forgotten painting was subfusc, its colors muted by time and neglect.
