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.
a strong desert sandstorm
A haboob is a massive sandstorm, sweeping across deserts with blinding force. This word with Arabic origins sounds as dramatic as the phenomenon itself. When the winds pick up, you'll know a haboob is on the horizon!
to deceive, trick, or cheat
To gull means to trick, deceive, or cheat. This word has mysterious origins but may be related to gullible. Keep your eye out for scams!
pertaining to the early springtime
Primaveral describes the fresh beauty of early spring, straight from Latin. Think budding flowers, songbirds, and that first warm breeze — everything that makes the season feel alive!
the juxtaposition of words that have a common root
A paregmenon is a phrase that repeats words from the same root, like “move and movement.” This rhetorical trick comes from Greek. Play with words, but don't overdo the paregmenon — or it'll sound silly and silliest!
to alleviate or mitigate
To allay is to to alleviate or mitigate something, from Old English roots meaning "to lighten." Whether it's fears, doubts, or a spicy meal gone wrong, a little relief can go a long way!
