Category archive: word of the day
batten
To furnish, fasten, or secure with battens (narrow strips of wood used especially for flooring).
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shimmy
Abnormal vibration or wobbling, as of the wheels of an automobile. A dance popular in the 1920s, characterized by rapid shaking of the body.
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compendium
A short, complete summary; an abstract. A list or collection of various items.
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fillip
A snap or light blow made by pressing a fingertip against the thumb and suddenly releasing it. One that is trivial or of little importance.
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decry
To condemn openly. To depreciate (currency, for example) by official proclamation or by rumor.
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traduce
To cause humiliation or disgrace to by making malicious and false statements.
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flagitious
Characterized by extremely brutal or cruel crimes; vicious. Infamous; scandalous.
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persiflage
Light good-natured talk; banter. Light or frivolous manner of discussing a subject.
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protean
Readily taking on varied shapes, forms, or meanings. Exhibiting considerable variety or diversity.
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numinous
Of or relating to a numen; supernatural. Spiritually elevated; sublime.
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cynosure
An object that serves as a focal point of attention and admiration. Something that serves to guide.
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importunate
Troublesomely urgent or persistent in requesting; pressingly entreating.
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enervate
To weaken or destroy the strength or vitality. To remove a nerve or part of a nerve.
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myrmidon
A faithful follower who carries out orders without question.
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