Word of the Day
octothorpe
[ ok-tuh-thawrp ]
Show IPA
noun
the official name for the # symbol.
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Why Dictionary.com chose octothorpe
More about octothorpe
- First recorded in 1970–75.
- From octo-, after the eight endpoints on the perimeter of the symbol, plus a second element of disputed origin.
- Used for numerous purposes, such as before a hashtag, for representing “pound” or “pounds” as a unit of weight or mass, for representing “number” or “numbered,” or as a proofreader’s symbol used to indicate the need to insert space.
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EXAMPLES OF OCTOTHORPE
- The password must include at least one octothorpe for added security.
- The code requires an octothorpe to denote a section break.
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Why Dictionary.com chose persnickety
More about persnickety
- First recorded around 1885–90.
- Originally from Scots, persnickety is a variant of pernickety, which is of uncertain origin.
- The prefix per– occurs in a number of other expressive words in Scots, such as pergaddus, “thump, clatter,” perskeet, “fastidious,” and perjink, “trim, neat.”
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EXAMPLES OF PERSNICKETY
- Despite his persnickety nature, she found his attention to detail endearing.
- The designer’s persnickety attitude ensured that every aspect of the project was perfect.
sumptuous
adjective
luxuriously fine or large; lavish; splendid.
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Why Dictionary.com chose sumptuous
More about sumptuous
- Entered English around 1475–85.
- Comes from the Latin word sūmptuōsus, meaning “expense.”
- Often confused with sumptuous, scrumptious, “very pleasing, especially to the senses; delectable,” is a possible alteration.
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EXAMPLES OF SUMPTUOUS
- The newlyweds indulged in a sumptuous honeymoon at a luxurious resort by the beach.
- She draped herself in a sumptuous velvet gown for the gala event.
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