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 make milder or less severe; alleviate; ease; mitigate.
Explanation
- First recorded in 1250–1300.
- Comes via Middle English from Old French and contains the Latin root suāvis, “agreeable to the taste, pleasant.”
- Both suave, "smoothly agreeable or polite," and sweet are related to assuage.
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- The kind words of a friend helped assuage her anxiety before the big presentation.
- The apology did little to assuage his anger over the misunderstanding.
adjective
firmly resolved or determined; set in purpose or opinion.
Explanation
- First recorded in 1375–1425 for its earlier meaning, “dissolved.”
- Recorded in 1525–35 for its current meanings.
- Comes via late Middle English from the past participle of the Latin verb resolvere, "to resolve."
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- The team captain was resolute in her belief that they could still win the game, encouraging her teammates to keep pushing forward.
- Despite facing numerous challenges, she remained resolute in her decision to pursue a career in music.
verb
to be extraordinarily pleased; especially, to be bursting with pride, as over one's family.
Explanation
- An Americanism first recorded in 1965–70.
- Comes from Yiddish kveln, meaning “to be delighted.”
- Related to the Middle High German and German word quellen, “to well up, gush.”
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- She couldn't help but kvell over her daughter's acceptance into the prestigious ballet company.
- Seeing their artwork displayed in a gallery made them kvell with happiness.
adjective
given to tricks; mischievous; playful; prankish.
Explanation
- First recorded in 1545–55.
- Derives from the noun trick, which came from the Old North French word trique, “deceit."
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- The mischievous elf played tricksy pranks on anyone who dared to enter the enchanted forest.
- The tricksy cat knocked over the vase while chasing a butterfly.
noun
one’s usual way of doing something.
Explanation
- First recorded in 1645–55.
- Comes from New Latin and means literally, “mode of working.”
- Often abbreviated MO.
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- By studying the wildlife biologist's modus operandi, conservationists hoped to replicate successful conservation efforts.
- Understanding the enemy's modus operandi is crucial in developing effective counterstrategies.
