Word of the Day
kvell
verb
to be extraordinarily pleased; especially, to be bursting with pride, as over one's family.
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Why Dictionary.com chose kvell
More about kvell
- An Americanism first recorded in 1965–70.
- Comes from Yiddish kveln, meaning “to be delighted.”
- Related to the Middle High German and German word quellen, “to well up, gush.”
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EXAMPLES OF KVELL
- She couldn’t help but kvell over her daughter’s acceptance into the prestigious ballet company.
- Seeing their artwork displayed in a gallery made them kvell with happiness.
tricksy
adjective
given to tricks; mischievous; playful; prankish.
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Why Dictionary.com chose tricksy
More about tricksy
- First recorded in 1545–55.
- Derives from the noun trick, which came from the Old North French word trique, “deceit.”
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EXAMPLES OF TRICKSY
- The mischievous elf played tricksy pranks on anyone who dared to enter the enchanted forest.
- The tricksy cat knocked over the vase while chasing a butterfly.
modus operandi
noun
one’s usual way of doing something.
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Why Dictionary.com chose modus operandi
More about modus operandi
- First recorded in 1645–55.
- Comes from New Latin and means literally, “mode of working.”
- Often abbreviated MO.
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EXAMPLES OF MODUS OPERANDI
- By studying the wildlife biologist’s modus operandi, conservationists hoped to replicate successful conservation efforts.
- Understanding the enemy’s modus operandi is crucial in developing effective counterstrategies.
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