English word of the day

Definition: (verb) To act or be counter to; violate. Synonyms: infringe, run afoul, conflict. Usage: This deportation order contravenes basic human rights and must be overturned.

Definition: (adjective) Marked by unjust severity or arbitrary behavior. Synonyms: oppressive. Usage: He was neither wrathful, cruel, nor tyrannical, but just and gentle as a king could be.

Definition: (verb) Try to gain favor by cringing or flattering. Synonyms: bootlick, toady, truckle, fawn, suck up. Usage: Josh was next in line for a promotion, but he refused to kowtow to his superiors, and they ultimately chose the suck-up who sat in the cubicle to his right.