Brucker Bears 4-5: keen

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

keen

(adj) - Something that is keen is very sharp. For example, a keen sense of smell is an extremely good ability to smell. A person with a keen sense of humor has a very sharp and witty talent when it comes to "funny stuff."

This word can also be used to describe something that you think is "awesome." This is more of a British term, but it was commonly used by teenagers in the US during the 1950s and 60s.

*This word can also be used as a verb, meaning "to sharpen."

Synonyms: sharp, acute, clever, quick
Antonyms: ignorant, stupid, dull
Etymology: 1200 Old English, from cēne meaning "bold brave," and later "clever, wise." This comes from Proto Germanic word *kan- meaning "be able to" (which is where we get the word can)
Morphology: keenly - adv
Example: An owl has keen senses of sight and hearing.

Today, Emma shows us more keen examples:

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Welcome! Let us cheer for you!

I am a big fan of vocabulary! Why should words be dull when they can be dazzling? It is my goal for your kids to learn at least 180 impressive words this year, not just so that they will recognize and understand them, but so that they will use them. When they hear, read or say one of the following words, you should expect to hear a little cheer--go ahead, test them out if you dare!

To the left, you will find the official list of our Words of the Day, complete with definitions, synonyms, etymology (origin), and examples. Clicking on the word will take you to the Longman Dictionary for more information, including pronunciation. In fact, you can click on any bold, colorful word or phrase to take a virtual excursion on the web.

If your child hears one of these words in conversation or on TV, have him log on and share what he heard by adding a "comment" below the word. AND, if you want to see your child flex her vocabulary muscle, have her add a comment and use the word in a great sentence of her own!