Today's Words: Nidificate, Squeegee and Disingenuous

Nidificate

(nid-uh-fi-keyt) Verb

to build a nest

More about Nidificate

Now in rare usage, first recorded in English between 1810–20; used without an object.

From Latin nīdificātus, the past participle of nīdificāre, “to build a nest.”

Examples of Nidificate

The bird chirped to herself: “I need to nidificate,” and started gathering twigs.

During the early months of the year, many birdwatchers visit the park to see the various species nidificate.

Squeegee

(skwee-jee) Noun

an implement for removing water from surfaces

More about Squeegee

First recorded in 1835–45.

Originally a nautical term; of obscure origin but possibly derived from and related to the English words squeege, “to press, squeeze,” and squilgee, a nautical term for an implement resembling a hoe.

Examples of Squeegee

After washing the windows, she used a squeegee to remove the excess water for a streak-free shine.

The caretaker quickly wiped the floor with a squeegee to prevent anyone from slipping on the wet surface.

Disingenuous

(dis-in-jen-yoo-uhs) Adjective

lacking in frankness, candor, or sincerity

More about Disingenuous

First recorded in 1645–55;

Note the spelling between ingenuous and ingenious, a commonly confused pair sharing the same Latin root meaning “inborn quality; innate ability.”

Examples of Disingenuous

It was disingenuous of the gym teacher to claim that the exercises were easy, knowing they were challenging for most students.

My disingenuous smile didn’t fool anyone; everyone knew I was still upset about the situation.

Inputs Courtesy: Dictionary.com