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 appease; to pacify
To placate is to appease or pacify someone. From smoothing ruffled feathers at the office to extinguishing an argument at your house, this word describes the art of making peace. A well-placed compliment or a thoughtful gesture can go a long way in learning how to placate.
He tried to placate the crying baby by offering a toy.
a sports arena equipped with a track for cycling
A velodrome is a sports arena equipped with a track for cycling. With Greek and French roots, this word describes a thrilling stage for two-wheeled competition. Whether for pros or local racers, the velodrome transforms every lap into a high-octane spectacle.
The cyclists raced around the velodrome, their tires humming on the smooth track.
goodbye; so long
Toodle-oo means "goodbye or so long," a playful interjection you're most likely to hear in Britain. Cheerful and just a bit old-fashioned, it's a fun way to part ways. Sprinkle a little toodle-oo into your farewells, and leave everyone smiling.
Toodle-oo! See you next time!
a bit of finery; a showy article of dress
Fallal is a bit of finery or a showy article of dress. That glittery scarf or statement necklace? It's the perfect fallal to make your outfit pop. From subtle accents to full-on flair, fallal proves that sometimes a little extra is exactly what you need.
Her outfit was adorned with so many fallals that she jingled when she walked.
(of meals or eating) at one's desk in an office
Al desko is a fairly modern adverb, first recorded in the 1980s, that describes eating a meal at one's office desk. As computers became more common, lunching while working became a hallmark of the workday. But just remember: The art of al desko can save time, but it won't give you a break.
She often eats her lunch al desko in the days leading up to project deadlines.
