Word of the Day
learn about the english language
Why Dictionary.com chose chockablock
More about chockablock
- First recorded in 1790–1800.
- Formed from chock, “wedge” + –a- (connective) + block, “solid mass of wood.”
EXAMPLES OF CHOCKABLOCK
- The shelves in the bookstore were chockablock with bestsellers and new releases.
- The festival grounds were chockablock with food stalls, music stages, and excited visitors.
learn about the english language
Why Dictionary.com chose feinschmecker
More about feinschmecker
- First recorded in 1895–1900;
- From German literally meaning “fine-taster, gourmet.”
- From fein, fine1 + Schmecker, “taster,” from schmecken, “to taste,” (see smack1 + -er1).
EXAMPLES OF FEINSCHMECKER
- The restaurant, popular among feinschmeckers, offered an exquisite tasting menu.
- An impressive feinschmecker, she could identify every ingredient in the elaborate dish.
learn about the english language
Why Dictionary.com chose tautology
More about tautology
- First recorded between 1570–80.
- A term in rhetoric. From Greek tautología, “repetition of something already said.”
- See origin at tauto-, -logy.
EXAMPLES OF TAUTOLOGY
- Her advice was to revert back to the original plan.
- This meeting is absolutely essential.
- I heard the news with my own ears.
Word of the Day Calendar