Word of the Day
hypnopompic
adjective
of or relating to the semiconscious state prior to complete wakefulness.
Why the Museum of Science chose hypnopompic
To find out, watch this video about hypnopompic from science communicator Alex Dainis, PhD.
Learn more at the Museum of Science.
More about hypnopompic
Hypnopompic comes from two Ancient Greek terms: hýpnos, meaning “sleep,” and pompḗ, meaning “a sending away.” Hýpnos is the name of the Greek god of sleep and is the source of the Word of the Day hypnopedia, while pompḗ is the source of pompous. Hypnopompic was first recorded in English at the turn of the 20th century.
EXAMPLE OF HYPNOPOMPIC USED IN A SENTENCE
In her hypnopompic state, all but the final moments of her dream quickly faded from memory.
More about Aesculapian
Aesculapian is the namesake of Aesculapius (Ancient Greek Asklēpiós), the Greek god of medicine. As with many Ancient Greek terms, Asklēpiós may be of pre-Greek extraction, originating in a long-lost Mediterranean language, similar to the Words of the Day dithyrambic and strigiform. Aesculapian was first recorded in English circa 1620.
EXAMPLE OF AESCULAPIAN USED IN A SENTENCE
Though home remedies may be tempting to try, the recommendations of doctors and other Aesculapian professionals are more tested.
More about feirie
Feirie is a Scottish dialectal term that comes from Old English fēre, “able-bodied, fit,” from the noun fōr, “journey, act of going.” Fōr, in turn, is based on the verb faran, “to go on a journey,” meaning that feirie is closely related to English fare, farewell, and wayfarer. Feirie was first recorded in English around the turn of the 15th century.
EXAMPLE OF FEIRIE USED IN A SENTENCE
The cyclist was hale and feirie once more after his bout of illness had passed.