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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.


fallal

[fal-lal]

noun

a bit of finery; a showy article of dress

Explanation

Fallal is a bit of finery or a showy article of dress. That glittery scarf or statement necklace? It's the perfect fallal to make your outfit pop. From subtle accents to full-on flair, fallal proves that sometimes a little extra is exactly what you need.

Example

Her outfit was adorned with so many fallals that she jingled when she walked.

al desko

[al des-koh]

adverb

(of meals or eating) at one's desk in an office

Explanation

Al desko is a fairly modern adverb, first recorded in the 1980s, that describes eating a meal at one's office desk. As computers became more common, lunching while working became a hallmark of the workday. But just remember: The art of al desko can save time, but it won't give you a break.

Example

She often eats her lunch al desko in the days leading up to project deadlines.

evenfall

[ee-vuhn-fawl]

noun

the beginning of evening; twilight; dusk

Explanation

Evenfall is a poetic way to say "the beginning of evening" — that gentle time when day slips into night. Writers and romantics alike treasure the word for its lyrical quality. Next time the sky deepens and the first stars flicker, you'll know you're right in the heart of evenfall.

Example

The hikers set up their tents just before evenfall.

emend

[ih-mend]

verb

to free from faults or errors; correct

Explanation

To emend is to free from faults or errors — in other words, to correct. Editors, scholars, and meticulous friends rejoice in the art of making things right, one revision at a time. Whether it's a manuscript, a speech, or even a to-do list, be sure to emend it to keep the details accurate and clear.

Example

Please emend the document to correct the grammatical errors.

premiate

[pree-mee-eyt]

verb

to grant a prize or an award to

Explanation

To premiate means "to grant a prize or award to someone." This word, which comes from Latin, is now primarily associated with awards in the field of architecture. Whether you're giving a trophy, ribbon, or recognition, premiate is the formal way to say, "Great work! You earned it."

Example

The foundation will premiate individuals who exemplify elegance in design.