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.
to hinder, block, or thwart
To stymie means "to hinder or block." The word was previously used in golf to refer to a ball blocking someone else's putt on the green. Next time you hit an obstacle, say you've been stymied. It won't solve the problem, but it'll sound more official!
early; in good time
Betimes means "early or in good time." Built from a Middle English phrase meaning "by time," it's a poetic way to describe getting things done ahead of schedule. Set your alarm, show up betimes, and you'll have bragging rights on what you've accomplished before anyone else even stirs!
the use or overuse of period-specific or archaic expressions
Gadzookery refers to the overuse of old-fashioned expressions. The word comes from "gadzooks," an archaic interjection used to show surprise. If you've ever gotten lost in Shakespeare-speak or pirate lingo, that's pure gadzookery at work.
to fail to meet or to keep an appointment with someone
To mistryst means "to miss or skip an appointment," leaving the other person hanging. Built from the prefix "mis-" plus "tryst" ("planned meeting"), it first cropped up in 17th-century Scotland. Does it still count as ghosting if you innocently mistryst someone?
a small cup for serving strong black coffee after dinner
A demitasse is a small cup for serving strong black coffee after dinner. The word comes from French, literally meaning "half-cup." Whether you prefer your coffee bold or just adorably petite, a demitasse adds an extra shot of charm to any café visit.
