Word of the Day
squeegee
noun
an implement for removing water from surfaces
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Why Dictionary.com chose squeegee
More about squeegee
- First recorded in 1835–45.
- Originally a nautical term; of obscure origin but possibly derived from and related to the English words squeege, “to press, squeeze,” and squilgee, a nautical term for an implement resembling a hoe.
EXAMPLES OF SQUEEGEE
- After washing the windows, she used a squeegee to remove the excess water for a streak-free shine.
- The caretaker quickly wiped the floor with a squeegee to prevent anyone from slipping on the wet surface.
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Why Dictionary.com chose nidificate
More about nidificate
- Now in rare usage, first recorded in English between 1810–20; used without an object.
- From Latin nīdificātus, past participle of nīdificāre, “to build a nest.” See nidify + -ate1.
EXAMPLES OF NIDIFICATE
- The bird chirped to herself: “I need to nidificate,” and started gathering twigs.
- During the early months of the year, many birdwatchers visit the park to see the various species nidificate.
maelstrom
noun
a restless, disordered, or tumultuous state of affairs
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Why Dictionary.com chose maelstrom
More about maelstrom
- First used in English between 1550–60.
- From old Dutch mal(en), “to grind” + stroom, “stream.” See meal2, stream.
- The sense of “powerful whirlpool” has been in use since the 1580s. The figurative meaning, obtained from the sense that the whirlpool would suck in ships and create chaos and turbulence, is attested since the 1830s.
EXAMPLES OF MAELSTROM
- The country was caught in a political maelstrom, with protests erupting in every major city.
- The sudden economic downturn created a financial maelstrom that affected businesses worldwide.
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