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pugilistic

[ pyoo-juh-lis-tik ] [ ˌpyu dʒəˈlɪs tɪk ] Show IPA Phonetic Respelling

adjective

inclined or eager to fight

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Why Dictionary.com chose pugilistic

More about pugilistic

  • First recorded in 1770–80 and originally meant “of or relating to boxing.”
  • Combines the Latin root pugil, meaning “a fist-fighter,” + -istic.

EXAMPLES OF PUGILISTIC

  • In group projects, the student’s pugilistic attitude made dealing with him feel like an assignment in itself.
  • The blackbird became very pugilistic if you approached its nest.
20240103
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51³Ô¹Ï of the Day Calendar

51³Ô¹Ï of the day

polemics

[ puh-lem-iks ] [ pəˈlɛm ɪks ] Show IPA Phonetic Respelling

noun

the art or practice of disputation or controversy

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Why Dictionary.com chose polemics

More about polemics

  • First recorded in 1630–40.
  • From Greek ±è´Ç±ô±ð³¾¾±°ìó²õ, meaning “of war.”

EXAMPLES OF POLEMICS

  • Among urban planners, polemics sometimes drowns out dialogue about shared goals.
  • The panel descended into heated polemics before the moderator could restore order.
20240103
51³Ô¹Ï of the Day Calendar

51³Ô¹Ï of the day

solstitial

[ sol-stish-uhl ] [ sɒlˈstɪʃ əl ] Show IPA Phonetic Respelling

adjective

occurring around the time of a solstice

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Why Dictionary.com chose solstitial

More about solstitial

  • First recorded in 1550–60.
  • Combines solstice, from Latin solstitium, meaning “the sun standing still” + the adjective-forming suffix -²¹±ô².

EXAMPLES OF SOLSTITIAL

  • In desert climates, the solstitial heat of the summer can press down like a weight.
  • With solstitial light extending the day, the birds sang well past dinnertime.
20240103
51³Ô¹Ï of the Day Calendar
51³Ô¹Ï of the Day Calendar