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.
away from the wind
Alee is a nautical term that originated in the 1300s and means "away from the wind." Alee reminds us that sometimes, the best course is the one with fewer waves. Hope it's smooth sailing from here on out!
a savory pie filled with custard, cheese, and other ingredients
Quiche is a savory pie filled with cheese and other ingredients. Though you might associate it with French cuisine, the dish ultimately has roots in German. Whether you like your quiche Lorraine or loaded with veggies, one thing's certain — it's going to be delicious!
glassy or transparent
Something hyaline is glassy or transparent, from the Greek word for "glass." Whether describing a shimmering sea or translucent crystals, this word captures the beauty of perfect clarity. Now that's a definition you can see right through!
to find fault or complain unreasonably
To carp is to find fault or complain unreasonably. This word comes from Old Norse, proving that griping is a pastime as old as language itself. So are you offering constructive criticism — or just carping?
a place on a ship where the compass is kept
A binnacle is the place on a ship where the compass is kept. The word traces back to a Latin term meaning "little lodge or dwelling place." So whether you're sailing the seas or just trying to stay on track, trust your inner binnacle!
