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.
verb
to write poetry.
Explanation
- First recorded in 1575–85.
- Formed from the word poet.
- Poet comes via the Middle English word poete from Greek poiētḗs, which meant, literally, "maker."
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- As the sun set over the horizon, he felt inspired to poetize his feelings on paper.
- During her travels, she would poetize about the various cultures and landscapes she encountered.
verb (used with object)
to pay, recompense, or reward for work, trouble, etc.
Explanation
- First recorded in 1515–25.
- Comes from the past participle of the Latin word remūnerāri, “to repay, reward.”
- Remūnerāri comes from the Latin prefix re-, "again," and mūnerāre, “to give, bestow.”
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- After completing the project ahead of schedule, the company was quick to remunerate the team for their hard work.
- As a token of appreciation, the organization will remunerate all volunteers for their dedication and commitment.
adjective
constituting a beginning; giving origin to something derived or developed; original.
Explanation
- First recorded around 1350–1400.
- Comes via Middle English from the Late Latin word prīmōrdiālis, meaning "of the beginning."
- Prīmōrdiālis contains prīm(us), "first," and ōrd(īrī), "to begin."
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- Legends speak of primordial gods who shaped the world in its early days.
- The artist's painting captured the essence of a primordial forest, untouched by human hands.
noun
physical, mental, or emotional tension that is caused by something positive or is psychologically or physically beneficial.
Explanation
- First recorded in 1965–70.
- Comes from the Greek prefix eu-, which means "good" or "well," and the word stress.
- Stress comes from distress, "great pain, anxiety, or sorrow," which is of Middle English origins.
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- Exercising regularly can lead to the experience of eustress, as it challenges your body in a positive way.
- Embarking on a solo travel adventure can generate eustress, fueling excitement and personal development.
adjective
(especially of a book or periodical) so interesting or suspenseful as to compel reading.
Explanation
- 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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- 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.
