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Word of the day

iconoclast

[ ahy-kon-uh-klast ] [ aɪˈkɒn əˌklæst ] Show IPA Phonetic Respelling

noun

a person who attacks cherished beliefs, traditional institutions, etc.

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Why Dictionary.com chose iconoclast

More about iconoclast

  • First used between 1590–1600.
  • From the Greek eikonoklástēs, equivalent to Greek –icono- + -klastēs, “breaker,” equivalent to klas- (variant stem of klân,”to break”) + tēs, agent noun suffix.

EXAMPLES OF ICONOCLAST

  • As an iconoclast, she challenged long-standing traditions in the art world, pushing for new forms of expression.
  • The young scientist became an iconoclast by openly disputing theories that had been accepted for decades.
20240103
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Word of the day

blinky

[ bling-kee ] [ ˈblɪŋ ki ] Show IPA Phonetic Respelling

adjective

(of milk) sour

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Why Dictionary.com chose blinky

More about blinky

  • First adjectival use is unclear. The verb blink in the sense “to turn sour” is attested since the 1600s.
  • Compare with the British dialect of blink, “to bewitch, turn (milk, beer) sour by witchcraft” + -y1.

EXAMPLES OF BLINKY

  • The milk had gone blinky overnight, giving off a sour smell and curdling in the container.
  • He grimaced when he tasted the blinky yogurt, realizing it had spoiled even though it was still sealed.
20240103
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Word of the day

ripsnorter

[ rip-snawr-ter ] [ ˈrɪpˈsnɔr tər ] Show IPA Phonetic Respelling

noun

something or someone remarkably good or exciting

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Why Dictionary.com chose ripsnorter

More about ripsnorter

  • An Americanism dating back to 1830–40.
  • Formed from rip1 + snorter.

EXAMPLES OF RIPSNORTER

  • She’s a ripsnorter of a performer, captivating the audience with her incredible talent and stage presence.
  • Their vacation was a ripsnorter, filled with adventure, stunning scenery, and unforgettable experiences.
20240103
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