Word of the Day

Siren

One of three sea nymphs, -- or, according to some writers, of two, -- said to frequent an island near the coast of Italy, and to sing with such sweetness that they lured mariners to destruction.

Last 7 Days

Evening star

A planet that is above the western horizon at sunset and less than 180° east of the Sun in right ascension.

Halcyon Days

About 14 days of calm weather follows the blustery winds of autumn’s end. The ancient Greeks and Romans believed them to occur around the time of the winter solstice, when the halcyon, or kingfisher, was brooding. In a nest floating on the sea, the bird was said to have charmed the wind and waves so that the waters were especially calm during this period.

Bloomer

From Mrs. Bloomer, an American, who sought to introduce this style of dress. A costume for women, consisting of a short dress, with loose trousers gathered round ankles, and (commonly) a broad-brimmed hat.

Chionophobia

The fear of snow

Perigee

The point in the Moon’s orbit that is closest to Earth.

Dendrophobia

Fear of trees

Sunrise/Sunset

The visible rising and setting of the Sun’s upper limb across the unobstructed horizon of an observer whose eyes are 15 feet above ground level.