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.
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.
to go away, get out
To skiddoo means "to leave quickly, often in a mischievous or unexpected way." It rose to prominence in early 20th-century slang, embodying the thrill of a swift departure. Whether dodging trouble or making a playful exit, skiddoo is the perfect word for a hasty retreat.
Skiddoo, before I change my mind!
a mass of trees or shrubs
A boscage refers to a dense grouping of trees or shrubs, often used to describe a picturesque or secluded part of a garden or forest. The word comes from Old French, evoking the charm of leafy hideaways and verdant nooks. Whether in literature or real life, boscage captures the allure of nature's quiet corners.
A thick boscage bordered the winding river, providing a haven for various birds and small animals.
