Word of the Day
riffraff
noun
a group of people regarded as disreputable or worthless
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Why Dictionary.com chose riffraff
More about riffraff
- First used in English between 1425–75.
- From late Middle English rif and raf, “every particle, things of small value.” From Old French rif et raf, formed on rifler, “to spoil.” See rifle2, “to ravage, snatch away.”
EXAMPLES OF RIFFRAFF
- The locals complained about the riffraff who gathered in the park at night, causing trouble.
- At the carnival, security was on high alert for any riffraff trying to disrupt the fun.
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Why Dictionary.com chose tenebrous
More about tenebrous
- First recorded in 1375–1425.
- Late Middle English word from Latin word tenebrōsus, “dark.” See Tenebrae + -ous.
- In Catholicism, the Tenebrae service during Holy Week involves the gradual extinguishing of candles to symbolize the darkness of Christ’s death.
- Tenebrer, “bearer of darkness,” was one name (among many) for Satan.
EXAMPLES OF TENEBROUS
- The artist was known for his tenebrous paintings, which often depicted mysterious, shadowy figures.
- The tenebrous cave was filled with echoes, making it both eerie and intriguing.
ambivalent
adjective
having mixed feelings about someone or something
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Why Dictionary.com chose ambivalent
More about ambivalent
- First used in 1910s in the field of psychology.
- Back formation from ambivalence; see ambi-, “both” + valence, “strength, worth.”
EXAMPLES OF AMBIVALENT
- His ambivalent feelings towards his hometown made it hard for him to decide whether to move back or stay in the city.
- I felt ambivalent about starting a new job; excited for the opportunity but sad to leave my current team.
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