Word of the Day
unputdownable
adjective
(especially of a book or periodical) so interesting or suspenseful as to compel reading.
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Why Dictionary.com chose unputdownable
More about unputdownable
- First recorded in the late 1830s in the sense of “cannot be suppressed.”
- In the highlighted sense of “page-turning,” first recorded in the late 1930s.
- Comes from the phrase put down.
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EXAMPLES OF UNPUTDOWNABLE
- The novel was so unputdownable that I stayed up all night to finish it.
- His latest short story collection is truly unputdownable and sure to captivate readers.
zetetic
adjective
proceeding by inquiry or investigation.
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Why Dictionary.com chose zetetic
More about zetetic
- First recorded in 1650–60.
- Comes via the New Latin word zētēticus, from Greek zētētikós, “inclined to investigate or inquire.”
- The stem of zētētikós is zētein, “to seek, inquire.”
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EXAMPLES OF ZETETIC
- The detective’s zetetic mindset led her to question the suspect from every angle possible.
- Through their zetetic exploration of the problem, they were able to propose innovative solutions that others had not considered.
kinkeeping
noun
the labor involved in maintaining and enhancing family ties, including organizing social occasions, remembering birthdays, sending gifts, etc.
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Why Dictionary.com chose kinkeeping
More about kinkeeping
- First recorded in 1975–80.
- Formed from the words kin, “a person’s relatives,” and keeping, “maintenance.”
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EXAMPLES OF KINKEEPING
- Despite her busy schedule, she always found time for kinkeeping such as sending cards for special occasions and organizing family gatherings.
- Kinkeeping became more challenging as the family grew and spread out across different cities and countries.
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