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.
too many to count
Myriad means "too many to count." When it entered English from Greek hundreds of years ago, it meant "ten thousand." But today, the word is about countlessness, not calculation. So go ahead and use it next time "a lot" just isn't enough.
a group traveling together for safety through difficult or dangerous areas
A caravan is a group journeying together, especially across difficult or dangerous areas. The word traces back to Farsi — a language also known as Persian — and ultimately comes from a root meaning "army." No solo missions here; caravans move as one.
the open country in parts of southern Africa, with grass, bushes, and sparse trees
Veld refers to the open terrain of southern Africa — think of grassland dotted with bushes and sparse trees. The word comes from Afrikaans and Dutch, and is closely related to the English word "field." Whether you're spotting antelope or just daydreaming, the veld offers quite a view!
a simplified language system used between speakers of different languages
A pidgin is a simplified language system that develops between speakers of different languages. It's most commonly used in business or travel situations, where people might need to come up with their own communication shortcuts to get the job done. Think of it as a linguistic life hack!
an object engraved with figures or characters and worn as an amulet or charm
A talisman is an object marked with symbols or figures, often worn as a charm that's believed to offer protection or good fortune. The word comes through Arabic from a Greek term meaning "payment." Whether you trust a carved pendant or an engraved coin, who couldn't use a little extra luck from time to time?
