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.
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.
adjective
proceeding by inquiry or investigation.
Explanation
- First recorded in 1650–60.
- Comes via the New Latin word zētēticus, from Greek zētētikós, “inclined to investigate or inquire.”
- The stem of zētētikós is zētein, “to seek, inquire.”
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- The detective's zetetic mindset led her to question the suspect from every angle possible.
- Through their zetetic exploration of the problem, they were able to propose innovative solutions that others had not considered.
noun
the labor involved in maintaining and enhancing family ties, including organizing social occasions, remembering birthdays, sending gifts, etc.
Explanation
- First recorded in 1975–80.
- Formed from the words kin, "a person's relatives," and keeping, "maintenance."
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- Despite her busy schedule, she always found time for kinkeeping such as sending cards for special occasions and organizing family gatherings.
- Kinkeeping became more challenging as the family grew and spread out across different cities and countries.
