Dictionary of Quotes

Definition: (verb) Represent as less significant or important. Synonyms: understate, minimize. Usage: As the police interrogated him, Henry tried desperately to downplay his role in the bank robbery. Discuss

noun: The transposition of (usually) the initial sounds of words producing a humorous result.

noun: The theory that inanimate objects demonstrate hostile behavior against us.

Definition: (adjective) Marked by firm determination or resolution; not shakable. Synonyms: unbendable, unfaltering, unshakable, unwavering, firm, steady, stiff. Usage: He remained steadfast in his belief that he had done the right thing. Discuss

noun: A word or phrase resulting from mishearing a word or phrase, especially in song lyrics.

Definition: (adjective) Insane and believed to be affected by the phases of the moon. Synonyms: lunatic. Usage: You are the first Avonlea girl who has ever gone to college; and you know that all pioneers are considered to be afflicted with moonstruck madness. Discuss

Definition: (verb) Walk with great difficulty. Synonyms: stagger. Usage: Dave refused to run quietly on the trail behind the sled…but continued to flounder alongside in the soft snow, where the going was most difficult, till exhausted. Discuss