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.
the principle of living a balanced, moderate, and simple life
Lagom is a Swedish word that refers to the principle of living a balanced, simple life. It's a philosophy that encourages moderation, reminding us that contentment often comes from having just enough. Lagom invites us to find harmony and satisfaction in simplicity.
Living a lagom life means finding a balanced approach to everything, from work to leisure.
intellectuals considered as an elite group or class
Intelligentsia refers to the educated and intellectual elite of a society, often involved in shaping culture or politics. The word entered English from Russian, and it shares the same Latin root as the word "intelligence." From coffeehouses to classrooms, the intelligentsia keep the ideas flowing.
The city's intelligentsia gathered to discuss the latest philosophical trends.
a small carnivorous freshwater fish native to South America
A piranha is a sharp-toothed freshwater fish found in South American rivers, famous for its powerful bite. The word came to English from Portuguese, but ultimately traces back to Tupi, an Indigenous South American language. While the reputation of a piranha is scarier than reality, you still wouldn't want to dangle your toes near a hungry one!
That small piranha has extremely sharp teeth. Watch out!
a lively Polish dance with a moderately quick triple meter
A mazurka is a lively Polish dance with a fairly quick triple meter. The name comes from a region of Poland where the dance first took root. A mazurka will have you spinning in style, whether you're in an elegant ballroom or a village square.
The energetic mazurka filled the dance hall with its lively triple rhythm.
characterized by clear perception or understanding
Lucid means "characterized by clear perception or understanding," and it can also describe vivid dreams. It comes from a Latin term meaning "clear or full of light." Whether you're making a point or wandering through a dream, lucid moments always cut through the fog.
