Word of the Day | Dictionary.com Featured Games Cultural Writing tips Dictionary.com Thesaurus.com Word of the Day Learn a new word every day! The Dictionary.com team of language experts carefully selects each Word of the Day to add some panache to your vocabulary. July 22, 2026 conspectus [kuhn-spek-tuhs] noun a general overview Explanation A conspectus is a high-level summary that brings a subject into view at a glance. It can serve as an orientation before diving into something to make sure no one gets overwhelmed with details. A good conspectus doesn't tell you everything, but it gives you a useful sense of what's ahead. Example The professor provided a brief conspectus of the course before beginning the first lecture. July 21, 2026 alack [uh-lak] interjection used as an exclamation of sorrow, regret, or dismay Explanation Alack is an old-fashioned cry of shock and sorrow. It can be shouted solo, but you might also see it paired up with its better-known cousin "alas." Alack and alas, they don't make interjections like they used to! Example With a heavy heart, she cried aloud, "Alack, our grand plans have completely failed!" July 20, 2026 sapid [sap-id] adjective having a strong pleasant flavor Explanation Something sapid has a rich flavor that's sure to please. The word comes in handy when "tasty" feels too vague and "flavorful" doesn't quite capture the full experience. Sapid is all about food that makes you happy with every bite. Example The chef prepared a sapid stew that delighted everyone at the table. July 19, 2026 hat trick [hat trik] noun three goals scored by a single player in one game Explanation A hat trick occurs when a single player scores three goals in the same game or match. It's one of the most celebrated individual achievements in sports, and diehard fans of a team are likely to remember each one. Few moments can energize a crowd quite like a hat trick. Example The talented striker celebrated wildly after scoring a hat trick in the championship game. July 18, 2026 false nine [fawls nahyn] noun (soccer) a center forward who drops into midfield to draw defenders out of position Explanation A false nine is a center forward who drops into midfield rather than staying near the opposing goal. The name comes from the number 9 jersey traditionally worn by that position. Although listed as a center forward, a false nine operates deeper on the field, disrupting the defense and creating opportunities for teammates. Example The coach decided to play with a false nine to confuse the opponent's defenders. 1 2 3 4 5 Word of the Day conspectus [kuhn-spek-tuhs] Get the Word of the Day Over 500,000 expert-authored dictionary and thesaurus entries Entry list Careers Contact us Help Cookies, terms & privacy IXL Learning's Dictionary Media Group reaches over 500,000,000 learners each year Essential reference for synonyms and antonyms Adaptive learning for English vocabulary Fun daily word games English dictionary and learning for Spanish speakers Spanish-English dictionary, translator, and learning French-English dictionary, translator, and learning Immersive learning for 25 languages Comprehensive K-12 personalized learning Marketplace for millions of educator-created resources 35,000+ worksheets, games, and lesson plans Fun educational games for kids Trusted tutors for 300+ subjects Math games and learning resources for kids © 2026 Dictionary Media Group, Inc., a division of IXL Learning