Word of the Day
Sardanapalian
[ sahr-dn-uh-peyl-yuhn ]
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adjective
excessively luxurious or sensual
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Why Dictionary.com chose Sardanapalian
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- First recorded in 1865鈥�70.
- Refers to the legendary king of Assyria, Sardanapalus, whose court was known for self-indulgence and luxury.
EXAMPLES OF SARDANAPALIAN
- The baron’s life was Sardanapalian, with all the trappings of excess.
- Their vacation to the private island was the epitome of Sardanapalian luxury.
SYNONYM OF THE DAY
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histrionics
[ his-tree-on-iks ]
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noun
behavior or speech for effect, as insincere or exaggerated expression of an emotion
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Why Dictionary.com chose histrionics
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- First recorded in 1860鈥�65; originally meant “theatrics; acting.”
- From the Latin 丑颈蝉迟谤颈艒, meaning “actor;” historically used to refer to bad acting.
EXAMPLES OF HISTRIONICS
- His speech was filled with histrionics, but it lacked any real substance or truth.
- The child’s histrionics were a tactic to avoid going to bed on time.
nolens volens
[ noh-lens woh-lens ]
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adverb
whether willing or not; willy-nilly
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Why Dictionary.com chose nolens volens
More about nolens volens
- First recorded in 1545鈥�55.
- From the Latin 苍艒濒脓苍蝉, meaning “unwilling,” and 惫辞濒脓苍蝉, meaning “willing.”
EXAMPLES OF NOLENS VOLENS
- The law compelled all companies to comply, nolens volens, with the new environmental standards.
- Nolens volens, the dog was dragged to the groomer for a much-needed wash.
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