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.
to wink
To nictate means "to wink," hailing from Latin. Yes, there's a technical term for that tiny, routine motion. So next time someone bats their lashes, you'll know they're nictating.
a midday or afternoon rest or nap
A siesta is a midday nap, especially popular in Spanish-speaking cultures. The word comes from a Latin term meaning "the sixth hour or midday." It's the linguistic equivalent of a hammock in the shade.
before the present time, formerly
Erst is an old-timey word meaning "formerly." This Old English word pops up in poetry and period dramas, adding a nostalgic flair to any tale when you're feeling bard-ish.
a hot spring that sends up fountains of water and steam into the air
A geyser is a natural hot spring that erupts periodically, shooting water and steam into the air. The term comes from the Icelandic hot spring Geysir. It's nature's way of letting off a little steam.
fawning or excessively flattering
Gnathonic describes someone who flatters excessively, usually for selfish reasons. It's named after Gnatho, a character in a Roman comedy. Think of it as a fancy word for calling out someone who's being fake.
