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Today's Words: Jubilee, Beek and Diffident

Jubilee

(joo-buh-lee) noun

a celebration of the anniversary of a special event

More about Jubilee

First recorded between 1350–1400.

From the Hebrew word yōbhēl which literally means “ram.” Another meaning was “a ram’s horn used as a trumpet” which was sounded to proclaim the Day of Atonement.

Examples of Jubilee

The town held a grand jubilee to commemorate its 200th anniversary.

The school’s centennial jubilee featured alumni from all over the world.

Beek

(beek) Verb

to bask or warm in the sunshine or before a fireplace, stove, or bonfire.

More about Beek

First recorded between 1200–50.

Possibly from the Middle English word beken, akin to bake. 

Examples of Beek

It’s so cozy to beek in front of the fireplace after a day of skiing.

On sunny days, we can see many lizards beeking in the sun.

Diffident

(dif-i-duhnt) Adjective

shy; lacking self-confidence.

More about Diffident

First recorded between 1425–75.

From Latin diffīdēns, “mistrusting, despairing.”

Examples of Diffident

The new student was nervous and diffident when introducing himself in front of the whole class.

Even as we praised the artist’s latest work, she remained unsure and diffident in manner.

Inputs Courtesy: Dictionary.Com



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