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.
extremely optimistic despite ongoing hardship or adversity
A Panglossian outlook finds the silver lining, even in the worst of situations. The word nods to a character from French literature who stays sunny in absurdly grim circumstances. Used today, Panglossian often highlights hope that borders on stubbornness.
Despite the mounting evidence of failure, his Panglossian attitude prevented him from acknowledging the true severity of the situation.
to address with harsh or abusive language
To vituperate is to speak sharply with anger or scorn, leaving no doubt about the speaker's feelings. The word suggests more than simple criticism, capturing speech that is deliberately scathing or critical. It's a strong term for moments when language crosses into verbal attack.
The angry customer began to vituperate the store manager, shouting insults and accusations.
a little bit; a small amount
A skosh is a tiny bit — just enough to notice. The word entered American slang in the 1950s, adapted from a Japanese word with a similar meaning. When "a touch" feels too vague, skosh delivers just the right amount.
I need just a skosh of sugar in my coffee.
having a musky smell
Moschate evokes a musky fragrance that can be rich, warm, or slightly sweet. The word can be used in reference to flowers or perfumes with a distinctive aroma. No matter where it pops up, moschate leaves an impression.
The moschate aroma of her perfume filled the room.
a short saying or observation that's witty or wise
Some truths hit hardest in just a few words. An aphorism captures wit, wisdom, or insight so sharply that it lingers in the mind. Often concise and quotable, aphorisms transform complex ideas into accessible, memorable sayings. They're the kind of lines that invite reflection long after they're read or said.
My grandmother often shared an aphorism about hard work: "Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise."
