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opsimath

[ op-suh-math ] [ ˈɒpsɪˌmæθ ] Show IPA Phonetic Respelling

noun

a person who begins to learn late in life

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Why Dictionary.com chose opsimath

More about opsimath

  • Formed from the Greek opsimathēs, from opse, “late” + -mathēs, adj. derivative of manthánein, “learn.”
  • Compare with polymath and chrestomathy.

EXAMPLES OF OPSIMATH

  • The opsimath eagerly enrolled in university courses, proving that it’s never too late to learn.
    As an opsimath, she enjoyed challenging herself with new academic subjects well into her senior years.
20240103
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Word of the day

erudite

[ er-yoo-dahyt ] [ ˈɛr yʊˌdaɪt ] Show IPA Phonetic Respelling

adjective

characterized by great knowledge; learned or scholarly

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Why Dictionary.com chose erudite

More about erudite

  • First recorded between 1375–1425.
  • From Latin ērudītus, equivalent to ērud(ē)- (ē-, intensive prefix + rud-, “unformed, rough, rude”) + -ītus, adjective suffix.
  • See origin at e-1, rude, -ite2.

EXAMPLES OF ERUDITE

  • She impressed the interview panel with her erudite responses, showcasing her extensive knowledge of the subject.
  • During the debate, his erudite arguments made it clear he had thoroughly researched the topic.
20240103
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Word of the day

tomfoolery

[ tom-foo-luh-ree ] [ ˌtɒmˈfu lə ri ] Show IPA Phonetic Respelling

noun,

foolish or silly behavior

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Why Dictionary.com chose tomfoolery

More about tomfoolery

EXAMPLES OF TOMFOOLERY

  • Their constant tomfoolery at the party made everyone laugh, though some found it slightly annoying.
  • The office meeting was interrupted by a round of tomfoolery that lightened the mood.
20240103
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