Definition: (noun) A set sequence of steps, part of larger computer program.
Synonyms: procedure, function.
Usage: Apparently, the program was crashing because there were careless typos in the code for a pivotal subroutine.
Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Bolivians proclaimed their independence from Spain in 1809, but it took 16 years of struggle to actually gain it in 1825. Spain had ruled the area since the 16th century. The country was named for its revolutionary hero, Simón Bolívar, who, with José San Martín, led the Battle of Ayacucho in 1824 that resulted in the end of Spanish rule of Bolivia and Peru. Independence Day is a public holiday, celebrated over two days including August 6, with parades and dancing in the streets of La Paz and Sucre. Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Petrov is a retired lieutenant colonel of the Soviet Air Defense Forces. In September 1983, during a tense era in US-Soviet relations, Petrov deviated from standard Soviet protocol by correctly identifying a missile attack warning as a false alarm. His decision may have prevented an erroneous retaliatory nuclear attack on the US and its allies. Investigation of the satellite warning system later confirmed that the system had malfunctioned. What happened to Petrov after the incident? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Definition: (adjective) Heartily friendly and congenial.
Synonyms: comradely.
Usage: Everyone in the tour group was instantly enamored by the guide and his hail-fellow demeanor.
Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
The Battle of Dogger Bank was a naval battle that took place in the North Sea during the Fourth Anglo-Dutch War, which broke out over Dutch trade with Britain’s enemies during the American Revolution. The battle is therefore considered part of the American War of Independence. The clash began after the British spotted and began to chase a Dutch merchant fleet being escorted by a convoy of warships. Both sides suffered significant casualties during the three-hour skirmish. Who emerged the victor? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Several of Canada’s provinces observe a holiday on the first Monday in August. In Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, and throughout the province, this day is known as Natal Day in celebration of the municipality’s birthday. In Halifax there is a concert and a fireworks show at Angus L. Macdonald Bridge in the harbor. Dartmouth, a neighbor city, has in past years hosted its own fireworks show at Lake Banook Cove. It also hosts the Dartmouth Natal Day Road Race, a running competition held since 1907. Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Hummingbirds are small New World birds that feed on insects and nectar, for which their long, slender bills are adapted. They have jewel-toned feathers whose prismatic construction iridesces in changing light and are usually seen hovering or darting, at speeds of up to 60 mph (97 km/h), their wings appearing blurred due to the rapidity of their beating. In flight, they have the highest metabolism of all animals but insects and must feed almost constantly to survive. What do they do at night? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
Definition: (adjective) Commonly used or practiced; usual.
Synonyms: habitual, accustomed, customary.
Usage: Professor Erlin lost his wonted calm: he beat the table with his fist, and drowned all opposition with the roar of his fine deep voice.
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Source: The Free Dictionary
The town of Wilber, Nebraska, site of the annual Czech Festival, has been designated by the U.S. Congress as the “Czech Capital of America.” Folk dance groups come from all over the state, and local residents wear Czech costumes and dance the beseda, or polka, in the streets. Foods prepared by the town’s residents and served at the festival include a number of Czech specialties, such as roast duck, sauerkraut, dumplings, and kolaches (sweet buns). There is even a kolache-eating contest. Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary
A qadi is a Muslim judge who renders decisions according to Sharia, the canon law of Islam. Although his jurisdiction extends to civil and criminal matters, the qadi typically hears only religious cases, such as those involving inheritance, marriage, and divorce. The first qadi was appointed in the 7th century by the second Muslim caliph, ‘Umar ibn al-Khattab, to help alleviate the burden of judging disputes that arose in the community. What are the qualifications for becoming a qadi? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary