Word of the Day
learn about the english language
Why Dictionary.com chose boobook
More about boobook
- First recorded in 1795–1805.
- From the Dharuk (an endangered Australian language) bokbok, imitative of the bird’s call.
EXAMPLES OF BOOBOOK
- A friend to farmers, the boobook helps to control the rodent population.
- The researchers set up cameras to observe the nocturnal habits of the boobook.
SYNONYM OF THE DAY
Double your word knowledge with the Synonym of the Day!
withershins
[ with-er-shinz ]
Show IPA
adverb
in a direction contrary to the natural one; counterclockwise
learn about the english language
Why Dictionary.com chose withershins
More about withershins
- First recorded in 1505–15; primarily Scottish.
- From the Middle Low German widdershinnes; combined from Old High German widar, meaning “opposite,” + sinnes, meaning “of the course or way.”
EXAMPLES OF WITHERSHINS
- The ferris wheel began to turn withershins, surprising the riders.
- Superstition held that circling the grave withershins could summon spirits.
doctrinaire
[ dok-truh-nair ]
Show IPA
adjective
dogmatic about others' acceptance of one's ideas
learn about the english language
Why Dictionary.com chose doctrinaire
More about doctrinaire
- First recorded in 1810–20 as a noun to refer to a member of a specific French political party.
- Combines doctrine + the suffix -aire, meaning “someone characterized by or occupied with.”
EXAMPLES OF DOCTRINAIRE
- The doctrinaire editor prioritized rigid requirements over the writer’s creativity.
- The doctrinaire tone of the lecture discouraged open discussion from the students.
Word of the Day Calendar