English word of the day

Definition: (verb) Reduce in worth or character, usually verbally. Synonyms: degrade, disgrace, put down. Usage: The CEO makes it a point to regularly demean employees in front of their colleagues, as he believes that a little public humiliation goes a long way in keeping people in their places.

Definition: (verb) Form intrigues (for) in an underhand manner. Synonyms: scheme, intrigue. Usage: We had to send that perfectly innocent man to penal servitude for a crime we know he never committed, and it was only afterward that we could connive in a sneakish way at his escape.

Definition: (noun) A debater who refutes or disproves by offering contrary evidence or argument. Synonyms: confuter. Usage: Although our opponent's speech was well-received by the crowd, our rebutter was confident that she could disprove most of his claims.