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.
forced feeding, as by a flexible tube and a force pump
"Gavage" refers to feeding through a tube, often used in medical or animal care settings. It's a technique that helps administer fluids, nutrients, or medications to patients that cannot eat on their own. It’s usually a word for serious situations since it can help save lives.
with careful and consistent effort; diligently
"Assiduously" describes working with careful and persistent effort. Whether it's a project, a workout, or learning new words, tackling it assiduously gets the job done. So, keep at it, you wordsmith in progress!
disdainfully proud; scornfully arrogant
"Haughty" describes someone disdainfully proud or scornfully arrogant. This word is great for calling out those who look down on others with undue pride. Even its etymological roots are tied to European nobles who considered themselves to be above others in life.
one's own way, choice, or preference
"Druthers" means one's own way or preference. It’s a folksy way to express having a choice, perfect for those moments when you know exactly what you want.
to belittle; attack maliciously
To "denigrate" means to belittle or attack maliciously. Use this word to describe unfair criticism whether it's true or not. The word comes from the Latin "denigrare" meaning to "blacken" so you get the gist when someone is sullying (or denigrating) your name.
