Word of the Day
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Why Dictionary.com chose auberge
More about auberge
- Auberge entered English from French around 1770–80.
- The French word auberge comes from Old Provençal alberga, which meant “encampment, hut.”
- These forms diverged from the verb arbergar, “to lodge, shelter,” which was originally from an East Germanic term meaning, “to shelter an armed force.”
- Both harbinger, which can mean “a person sent in advance of troops,” and harbor, “shelter,” may have similar origins.
EXAMPLES OF AUBERGE
- After a long day of hiking, we were relieved to find a welcoming auberge to rest our weary bodies.
- The cozy auberge by the lake offered comfortable accommodations and delicious homemade meals.
cavort
verb
to behave in a high-spirited, festive manner.
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Why Dictionary.com chose cavort
More about cavort
- Cavort is an Americanism dating back to 1785–95.
- Cavort comes from the earlier word cavault.
- Cavault is perhaps a combination of the words cur(vet), “a leap of a horse from a rearing position, in which it springs up with the hind legs outstretched as the forelegs descend,” and vault, “to leap or spring.”
EXAMPLES OF CAVORT
- After weeks of intense studying, the students decided to let loose and cavort around town at the end of the semester.
- The dancers cavorted with contagious enthusiasm, lifting the spirits of all who were watching.
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Why Dictionary.com chose convivium
More about convivium
- Convivium was first recorded in 1720–30.
- Convivium has roots in the Latin word for feast, convīviālis, which comes from the Latin verb meaning “to live together or dine together.”
- The adjective form, convivial, “friendly” or “fond of feasting, drinking, and merry company,” came from the same root, but was recorded in English earlier, around 1660-70.
EXAMPLES OF CONVIVIUM
- With its vibrant decorations and lively atmosphere, the convivium transformed the park into a festive space for people to come together and enjoy good company.
- The convivium was filled with laughter, music, and delicious food as friends and family gathered to honor the newlyweds.
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