Word of the Day

Definition: (adjective) Showing inappropriate levity. Synonyms: flippant. Usage: The light-minded woman had been discovering good matches for her daughter almost from the year of her birth. Discuss

Definition: (noun) The speech act of answering an attack on your assertions. Synonyms: defense. Usage: His refutation of the charges was short and persuasive. Discuss

Definition: (verb) Separate or cut with a tool, such as a sharp instrument. Synonyms: rive, split. Usage: The axe had cleaved open the back of his skull. Discuss

Definition: (adjective) Lacking exceptional quality or ability. Synonyms: mediocre, average, fair. Usage: The performance was middling at best, but for some reason the audience still rose to its feet at the end of the show for a standing ovation. Discuss

Definition: (adjective) Capable of being demonstrated or proved. Synonyms: provable. Usage: The mother showed a demonstrable lack of concern for the general welfare of her children, so they were taken away from her. Discuss

Definition: (noun) Persistent determination. Synonyms: doggedness, perseverance, persistency, tenacity. Usage: Again and again…with the inexorable pertinacity of a child…did he renew his efforts. Discuss

Definition: (noun) Exercising in preparation for strenuous activity. Synonyms: warm-up, prolusion. Usage: The scrimmage was a tune-up for the big game. Discuss

Definition: (adjective) Characteristic of rural life. Synonyms: rustic. Usage: The house was very handsome, with a lovely countrified garden. Discuss

Definition: (verb) Be relevant to. Synonyms: concern, bear on, come to, touch on, refer, relate. Usage: All the evidence that pertains to the accident was submitted to the court. Discuss

Definition: (verb) To shake or destroy the courage or resolution of; dispirit. Synonyms: put off. Usage: These difficult economic conditions dishearten people and undermine their hope. Discuss