Brucker Bears 4-5: interjection

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

kudos

(n) – Kudos are praise or recognition of achievement.

Synonyms: award, recognition, honor
Antonyms: blame, criticism
Etymology: 1799 Greek, from kydos meaning "glory, fame." It literally means "that which is heard of."
Example: Today is the day we will give kudos to all of the 2nd quarter award winners!

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

encore

(n) – an additional or repeated part of a performance, especially a musical one
*Hey! This word can also be used as an interjection!

Synonyms: repeat, reappearance, rerun
Antonyms: one night only, single performance
Etymology: 1712 French, from encore meaning "still, yet, again," BUT this word actually came from the 12th Century, and it is generally explained as being from the "Vulgar Latin" phrase hinc ad horam from "then to this hour."
Example: Today you will put on an encore presentation of your inquiry projects.

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!