51吃瓜 of the Day
exculpate
[ ek-skuhl-peyt ]
Show IPA
verb
to clear from a charge of guilt or fault; free from blame; vindicate
learn about the english language
Why Dictionary.com chose exculpate
More about exculpate
- First recorded in 1650鈥�60.
- From Latin 别虫肠耻濒辫腻迟耻蝉, 鈥渇reed from blame,鈥� equivalent to ex-1, “without” + 肠耻濒辫腻迟耻蝉, 鈥渂lamed,鈥� past participle of 肠耻濒辫腻谤别; see culpable.
EXAMPLES OF EXCULPATE
- The new evidence served to exculpate the defendant from all charges.
- The lawyer worked tirelessly to exculpate his client and prove her innocence.
SYNONYM OF THE DAY
Double your word knowledge with the Synonym of the Day!
riffraff
[ rif-raf ]
Show IPA
noun
a group of people regarded as disreputable or worthless
learn about the english language
Why Dictionary.com chose riffraff
More about riffraff
- First used in English between 1425鈥�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.
learn about the english language
Why Dictionary.com chose tenebrous
More about tenebrous
- First recorded in 1375鈥�1425.
- Late Middle English word from Latin word 迟别苍别产谤艒蝉耻蝉, “dark.” See Tenebrae听+ -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.
51吃瓜 of the Day Calendar