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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.


epicure

[ep-i-kyoor]

noun

a person with a refined taste, especially for food and wine

Explanation

An epicure is someone with refined taste, especially when it comes to food and wine. The word comes from the Greek philosopher Epicurus, who believed pleasure, particularly from good food, was the key to a happy life. So, if you're savoring that perfect meal, you might just be an epicure in disguise!

brabble

[brab-uhl]

noun

noisy, quarrelsome chatter

Explanation

"Brabble" is the word for noisy, quarrelsome chatter that usually gets nowhere. It comes from a Middle English word meaning "to argue or squabble." So, when conversations get loud and unproductive, just say it's turning into a brabble โ€” and everyone will know exactly what you mean!

tonsorial

[ton-sawr-ee-uhl]

adjective

of or relating to a barber or barbering

Explanation

"Tonsorial" relates to barbers or the art of cutting hair. It comes from the Latin meaning "a barber." So, the next time you're heading to the salon or getting a trim, say you have tonsorial matters to attend to.

plaint

[pleynt]

noun

a lament; lamentation

Explanation

"Plaint" is an old-fashioned word for a lament or a mournful cry of sorrow. If you're feeling down and need to express your sadness, a plaint might just capture your feelings in poetic form.

froward

[froh-werd]

adjective

willfully contrary; not easily managed

Explanation

"Froward" describes someone who is willfully contrary or difficult to manage, especially when they're deliberately stubborn. The word comes from Middle English and was first recorded around 1200. When you're dealing with a froward person, patience is key โ€” they like to do things their own way!