Word of the Day
Word of the day
learn about the english language
Why Dictionary.com chose octonary
More about octonary
- First recorded in 1525–35.
- From Latin octōnārius; combines Latin octōnī, meaning “by eights,” + -ary².
- Often used to describe a base-8, octal, number system, which counts by 1s, 8s, 64s, etc., rather than 1s, 10s, 100s, etc.
EXAMPLES OF OCTONARY
- They realized the radio transmission used an octonary code.
- The orchestra’s brass section was arranged in an octonary formation, with eight musicians in two rows.
learn about the english language
Why Dictionary.com chose baksheesh
More about baksheesh
- First recorded in 1615–25.
- From the Persian word bakhshish, meaning “gift, pardon, or generosity.”
EXAMPLES OF BAKSHEESH
- His warmth and a thoughtful bit of baksheesh ensured the bellhop handled his bags with extra care.
- A seasoned traveler understands that baksheesh goes a long way in getting the best seat in a crowded teahouse.
learn about the english language
Why Dictionary.com chose drouk
More about drouk
- First recorded in 1505–15.
- From Old Norse drukna, meaning “to be drowned.”
- Related to the word drown.
EXAMPLES OF DROUK
- The sudden downpour managed to drouk everyone before they reached shelter.
- A leaky roof drouked the kitchen floor overnight.
Word of the Day Calendar