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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.


ingeminate

[in-jem-uh-neyt]

verb

to repeat; reiterate

Explanation

To ingeminate is to repeat something for emphasis; think of it as the fancy cousin of "reiterate." Derived from a Latin term meaning "twin," this word adds dramatic flair to speeches, poems, and pep talks alike. Say it once, then ingeminate it!

Example

He would often ingeminate his main points during the lecture to ensure the students understood.

calque

[kalk]

noun

a loan translation of a word or phrase from another language

Explanation

A calque is a borrowed phrase translated word for word from another language, originating from a French word meaning "copy." Language loves a good remix, and calques show how words travel, evolve, and inspire across cultures.

Example

"Flea market" is a calque from the French marché aux puces.

suspire

[suh-spahyuhr]

verb

to sigh or breathe

Explanation

To suspire is to sigh or breathe, often with emotion. Once common in sonnets and romances, this poetic word still fits perfectly when you need to let out a dreamy or dramatic exhale.

Example

After a long day, she would often suspire with relief.

olfactory

[ol-fak-tuh-ree]

adjective

pertaining to smell

Explanation

Olfactory is an adjective used to describe the sense of smell. In fact, this Latin-based word shares the same root as "odor." From the aroma of morning coffee to the earthy scent of fallen leaves, olfactory is a word that wafts through daily routines and memories.

Example

The bloodhound has a keen olfactory sense, making it excellent at tracking.

grimoire

[greem-wahr]

noun

a manual of magic or witchcraft used by witches and sorcerers

Explanation

A grimoire is a book of magic or spells — essential reading for any aspiring wizard or witch. The word summons visions of leather-bound books and mysterious runes. Whether you're casting spells or just collecting curious words, grimoire is a page-turner worth remembering.

Example

The dusty grimoire contained spells that had been passed down through generations of witches.