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kvell

[ kvel ] [ kvɛl ] Show IPA Phonetic Respelling

verb

to be extraordinarily pleased; especially, to be bursting with pride, as over one's family.

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Why Dictionary.com chose kvell

More about kvell

  • An Americanism first recorded in 1965–70.
  • Comes from Yiddish kveln, meaning “to be delighted.”
  • Related to the Middle High German and German word quellen, “to well up, gush.”
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EXAMPLES OF KVELL

  • She couldn’t help but kvell over her daughter’s acceptance into the prestigious ballet company.
  • Seeing their artwork displayed in a gallery made them kvell with happiness.
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tricksy

[ trik-see ] [ ˈtrɪk si ] Show IPA Phonetic Respelling

adjective

given to tricks; mischievous; playful; prankish.

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Why Dictionary.com chose tricksy

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EXAMPLES OF TRICKSY

  • The mischievous elf played tricksy pranks on anyone who dared to enter the enchanted forest.
  • The tricksy cat knocked over the vase while chasing a butterfly.
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modus operandi

[ moh-duhs op-uh-ran-dee, -dahy ] [ ˈmoʊ dəs ˌɒp əˈræn di, -daɪ ] Show IPA Phonetic Respelling

noun

one’s usual way of doing something.

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Why Dictionary.com chose modus operandi

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EXAMPLES OF MODUS OPERANDI

  • By studying the wildlife biologist’s modus operandi, conservationists hoped to replicate successful conservation efforts.
  • Understanding the enemy’s modus operandi is crucial in developing effective counterstrategies.
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