Word of the Day
Learn a new word every day! The Dictionary.com team of language experts carefully selects each Word of the Day to add some panache to your vocabulary.
something unusual that is collected
A curio can be any small, unusual object that draws attention due to an interesting feature or backstory. The word is a shortening of "curiosity," and it carries the same sense of wonder, oddity, and storytelling. Whether it's a carved figurine, a small fossil, or something you can't quite explain, a good curio invites closer inspection.
The antique shop was filled with interesting curios from around the world.
pertaining to wisdom, knowledge, or study
Palladian evokes a world of deep study, composed thought, and cultivated intellect. Fittingly, its roots lie in the name of Pallas Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom. Whether you're reflecting, reading, or reasoning something out, Palladian has you covered.
The professor's Palladian insights into ancient philosophy captivated his students.
close relationship or connection
Consanguinity originally referred to shared bloodlines, but it can now describe any deep bond or connection: familial, friendly, or even ideological. Its Latin roots literally mean "with blood," so whether you're mapping a family tree or describing a kindred spirit, consanguinity perfectly captures the closeness.
The friends' consanguinity was evident in their unwavering support for one another.
prevalent; widespread
Something regnant isn't just present — it's everywhere. The word often describes ideas, attitudes, or styles that hold sway in a particular time or place. If a trend feels inescapable or a belief goes unchallenged, it could be regnant.
The professor's theories, once regnant in the field, have gradually lost influence.
a Hawaiian bird with a red body, black wings, and a pinkish-red curved bill
The iiwi is an eye-catching Hawaiian bird known for its crimson body, jet-black wings, and elegantly curved bill. Once common across the islands, this vibrant bird now lives mostly in higher elevations. Whether you're a birdwatcher or a word collector, the iiwi is worth spotting.
The colorful iiwi delights birdwatchers visiting the Hawaiian forests.
