Diacritic (noun)
dai-a-krit-ik
A sign, such as an accent or cedilla, which when written above or below a letter indicates a difference in pronunciation from the same letter when unmarked or differently marked.
Late 17th century from Greek diakritikos, from diakrinein ‘distinguish’, from dia- ‘through’ + krinein ‘to separate’.
Example sentences
“Many Roman characters had diacritics, and for historians the correct placement can be tricky.”
Averment (noun) a-ver-ment An affirmation or allegation. Late Middle English from Old French averrement, averement, from averer ‘declare true'. See aver. (more…)
Trypophobia (noun) tri-po-fo-bee-a Extreme or irrational aversion to or fear of clusters of small holes or bumps. Early 21st century from Greek trýpa ‘hole’ + -phobia. (more…)
Chypre (noun) sheep-re A heady perfume made from Sandalwood. Late 19th century from French, literally ‘Cyprus’, perhaps where it was first made. (more…)
Guddle (verb) (Scots) gud-l To fish with the hands by groping under stones or at the bank of a stream. Mid 17th century of unknown origin. (more…)
Bonobo (adj) bon-o-bo A chimpanzee with a black face and black hair, found in the rainforests of the Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire). It is believed to be the closest…
Moonlighting (verb) moon-lie-ting Have a second job, typically secretly and at night, in addition to one's regular employment. From working at night, by moonlight (more…)
Hallion (noun) (Scots/Irish) hal-ee-un A worthless or contemptible person. Late 18th century origin uncertain. (more…)
Cumber (verb) kum-ber (dated) Hamper or hinder. Middle English (in the sense ‘overthrow, destroy’): probably from encumber. (more…)