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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.


e pluribus unum

[e ploo-ri-boos oo-noom]

out of many, one

Explanation

"E pluribus unum," Latin for "out of many, one," is a motto found on the Great Seal of the United States. The phrase represents the unity of states forming one nation. Fun fact: the 13 letters in the phrase symbolize the original 13 U.S. colonies and the red and white stripes of the American flag.

chockablock

[chok-uh-blok]

adjective

extremely full; crowded; jammed

Explanation

"Chockablock" means crammed full of people or things, and it originates from nautical terminology. This lively word is perfect for describing a crowded event or an overly stuffed closet. So, next time you're in a packed room, remember it’s chockablock with excitement!

feinschmecker

[fahyn-shmek-uhr]

noun

gourmet; a person who appreciates good food

Explanation

"Feinschmecker" is a German term for a gourmet or a person with refined taste in food. It’s a delicious word for those who savor the finer things in life.

tautology

[taw-tol-uh-jee]

noun

needless repetition of an idea

Explanation

"Tautology" is a redundant term that refers to saying the same thing twice in different words. An example of tautology is the phrase "free gift"—after all, a gift is inherently free! Learning about tautology can help you sharpen your writing by avoiding unnecessary repetition.

dovetail

[duhv-teyl]

verb

to join or fit together compactly or harmoniously.

Explanation

The word "dovetail" comes straight from carpentry. It means to fit together seamlessly or harmoniously, much like the interlocking pieces of a dovetail joint in woodworking. Whether you're talking about ideas, plans, or actual wood pieces, "dovetail" is perfect for describing a perfect fit!