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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.


chichi

[shee-shee]

adjective

elegant, trendy, or pretentious

Explanation

If something is chichi, it's elegant and trendy — but sometimes a bit pretentious. This French-inspired term describes the kind of flair that turns heads (and may raise eyebrows). Whether it's a lavish outfit or a gilded mirror, chichi knows how to make an entrance!

grice

[grahys]

noun

a young pig

Explanation

Ever heard of a grice? This charming word for a young pig comes from Old Norse and is mostly used in Scotland today. Talk about hogging history — one squeal at a time!

propitiate

[pruh-pish-ee-eyt]

verb

to placate or make peace with

Explanation

To propitiate means "to make peace with or placate," often through kind gestures. Rooted in Latin, this word smooths over any disagreements with its diplomatic charm.

spindrift

[spin-drift]

noun

spray swept up by wind along the surface of the sea

Explanation

Spindrift refers to the fine spray of sea foam blown by the wind. This picturesque term evokes the beauty and energy of the open ocean, perfect for a splash of inspiration.

decorticate

[dee-kawr-ti-keyt]

verb

to remove the bark, husk, or outer covering from

Explanation

To decorticate means "to remove the outer layer," like peeling fruit or stripping bark. From Latin roots, it's a word for uncovering what lies beneath.