Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com

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.


evenfall

[ee-vuhn-fawl]

noun

the beginning of evening; twilight; dusk

Explanation

Evenfall is a poetic way to say "the beginning of evening" — that gentle time when day slips into night. Writers and romantics alike treasure the word for its lyrical quality. Next time the sky deepens and the first stars flicker, you'll know you're right in the heart of evenfall.

Example

The hikers set up their tents just before evenfall.

emend

[ih-mend]

verb

to free from faults or errors; correct

Explanation

To emend is to free from faults or errors — in other words, to correct. Editors, scholars, and meticulous friends rejoice in the art of making things right, one revision at a time. Whether it's a manuscript, a speech, or even a to-do list, be sure to emend it to keep the details accurate and clear.

Example

Please emend the document to correct the grammatical errors.

premiate

[pree-mee-eyt]

verb

to grant a prize or an award to

Explanation

To premiate means "to grant a prize or award to someone." This word, which comes from Latin, is now primarily associated with awards in the field of architecture. Whether you're giving a trophy, ribbon, or recognition, premiate is the formal way to say, "Great work! You earned it."

Example

The foundation will premiate individuals who exemplify elegance in design.

pinnate

[pin-eyt]

adjective

of a leaf with smaller leaflets arranged on either side of its stalk or stem

Explanation

A pinnate leaf has smaller leaflets arranged on either side of its stalk or stem. It's a word used in biology to describe a perfectly balanced plant pattern. Once you start noticing pinnate leaves, you'll see them everywhere, from ferns to rose leaves.

Example

The fern had delicate pinnate leaves.

saxicoline

[sak-sik-uh-lin]

adjective

living or growing among rocks

Explanation

Saxicoline is a term in botany and zoology to describe plants or creatures living or growing among rocks. From mossy hideaways to wildflowers dotting the mountainside, it's all about finding a foothold in the rocky corners of the world. Next time you spot a plant sprouting from a cliffside, you can proudly declare it saxicoline.

Example

The saxicoline plants clung to the rocky cliff face.