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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.


lethargic

[luh-thahr-jik]

adjective

drowsy; sluggish; apathetic

Explanation

When you're lethargic, you feel sluggish and unenergized. We get the word from Greek mythology, where Lethe was the river of forgetfulness. Can you make that connection with a state that is sleepy, slow, and lazy? Yawn...

bumfuzzle

[buhm-fuhz-uhl]

verb

to confuse or fluster

Explanation

To "bumfuzzle" means "to confuse or fluster." This charmingly perplexing word has an unknown origin, but its quirky sound makes it unforgettable. Let's embrace the confusion and enjoy the bumfuzzling fun!

amanuensis

[uh-man-yoo-en-sis]

noun

a person employed to write what another dictates or to copy what has been written by another

Explanation

An amanuensis is a person employed to write or type what another dictates. From Latin roots meaning "at hand to write," this word hails the unsung heroes of history. Ready to channel your inner amanuensis and pen something great?

fractious

[frak-shuhs]

adjective

unruly; unwilling to comply

Explanation

"Fractious" describes someone who is quarrelsome and unruly. It stems from the Latin word "frangere" meaning "to break," which really captures how a cranky friend might separate from the rest of the group over a disagreement.

folderol

[fol-duh-rol]

noun

mere nonsense; foolish talk or ideas

Explanation

Folderol refers to trivial or nonsensical fuss or talk. Originating from the playful refrains of old songs, this word adds a dash of frivolity to your vocabulary. Ready to cut through the folderol and have some fun?