Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com

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.


munificent

[myoo-nif-uh-suhnt]

adjective

extremely liberal in giving; very generous

Explanation

"Munificent" describes extreme generosity — like donating your lottery winnings to charity! It has roots in Latin meaning "bountiful" and celebrates big-hearted giving. So go ahead, be munificent with your time, your smiles, and your money!

admonish

[ad-mon-ish]

verb

to urge to a duty; remind

Explanation

To "admonish" is to offer a gentle warning or reminder. It’s a great term for when someone needs a nudge in the right direction. So next time you kindly remind someone to stay on task, you're simply admonishing with care!

calcimine

[kal-suh-mahyn]

noun

a white or tinted wash for walls, ceilings, etc.

Explanation

Calcimine is a white or tinted wash used for brightening up walls and ceilings. Popular in the 19th century, it gets its name from the Latin word for "lime." Whether you're going vintage or just touching up, calcimine gives your space a fresh, old-fashioned glow!

saturnine

[sat-er-nahyn]

adjective

sluggish in temperament; gloomy; taciturn

Explanation

"Saturnine" describes someone who’s moody or gloomy. It comes from the belief that melancholy could be caused by the astrological influence of the planet Saturn. If you’re in a saturnine mood, don't worry — it will pass!

edentate

[ee-den-teyt]

adjective

toothless or having only few teeth

Explanation

"Edentate" means toothless or having few teeth, a term fit for animals like anteaters, or for those gaps left by a missing tooth. It’s a quirky word to describe creatures that manage just fine without a full set of pearly whites!