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.
(of meals or eating) at one's desk in an office
Al desko is a fairly modern adverb, first recorded in the 1980s, that describes eating a meal at one's office desk. As computers became more common, lunching while working became a hallmark of the workday. But just remember: The art of al desko can save time, but it won't give you a break.
She often eats her lunch al desko in the days leading up to project deadlines.
the beginning of evening; twilight; dusk
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.
The hikers set up their tents just before evenfall.
to free from faults or errors; correct
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.
Please emend the document to correct the grammatical errors.
to grant a prize or an award to
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."
The foundation will premiate individuals who exemplify elegance in design.
of a leaf with smaller leaflets arranged on either side of its stalk or stem
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.
The fern had delicate pinnate leaves.
