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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.


hunky-dory

[huhng-kee-dawr-ee]

adjective

about as well as one could wish or expect

Explanation

Call it hunky-dory when everything's running just as it should — smooth sailing all the way. Some think "hunk" is an old slang word for somewhere safe, but "dory" is a linguistic mystery. No matter its roots, hunky-dory is your one-stop phrase for saying, "It's all good!"

Example

They were pleasantly surprised that everything in their new business seemed hunky-dory.

ambsace

[eymz-eys]

noun

the smallest amount or distance

Explanation

Ambsace describes razor-thin distances or amounts, when defeat or victory may hang in the balance. Once referring to the lowest throw in dice, this French word now marks the tiniest of margins. It's a linguistic reminder that "almost nothing" can still count for something — and it sounds fancy too!

Example

The dart landed within an ambsace of the bullseye, nearly perfect.

colloquial

[kuh-loh-kwee-uhl]

adjective

characteristic of informal spoken language

Explanation

Colloquial describes informal, everyday language. From a Latin term meaning "to talk together," it captures the warmth of casual speech. Often misunderstood as "incorrect," colloquial language is simply familiar and conversational, the kind of speech that keeps chats, stories, and ideas flowing naturally.

Example

The author used colloquial language to make the characters' dialogue sound more realistic.

adjuvant

[aj-uh-vuhnt]

adjective

serving to help or assist

Explanation

Adjuvant describes something or someone that helps — whether it's a supportive friend, a booster ingredient, or a scientific additive. From a Latin term meaning "to aid," this word celebrates the sidekicks and secret strengths that make success possible.

Example

With the nurse's adjuvant care, the patient improved quickly.

jnana

[juh-nah-nuh]

noun

absolute insight acquired through study

Explanation

Jnana describes the kind of understanding that comes from careful study and reflection. Rooted in Sanskrit, it refers to wisdom that goes beyond facts. In short, jnana is enlightenment through intellect.

Example

Through years of study, she achieved a state of jnana, allowing her to understand the universe with absolute insight.