- Despondent
- Today's Word
Despondent
dih-SPON-dent
Definition
(adjective) In low spirits from loss of hope or confidence.
Example
After weeks of job rejections, he grew increasingly despondent.
Fun FactFrom Latin despondere (“to give up”), “despondent” reflects emotional surrender—more serious than mere sadness. It’s often used to describe periods of grief, depression, or deep discouragement. In literature, despondent characters often face turning points that test their resilience.
Today's Popular Words
Despondent
- Today's Word
Despondent
dih-SPON-dent
Definition
(adjective) In low spirits from loss of hope or confidence.
Example
After weeks of job rejections, he grew increasingly despondent.
Fun Fact
From Latin despondere (“to give up”), “despondent” reflects emotional surrender—more serious than mere sadness. It’s often used to describe periods of grief, depression, or deep discouragement. In literature, despondent characters often face turning points that test their resilience.
Manifold
- Today's Word
Manifold
MAN-ih-fohld
Definition
(adjective) Numerous and varied; having many different forms or parts.
Example
The report outlined the manifold challenges facing the education system.
Fun Fact
“Manifold” comes from Old English roots meaning “many-folded,” like a sheet folded over and over. Today it describes complex systems, diverse ideas, or layered problems—anything with more than one face. It’s common in philosophy, mechanics, and policy discussions.
Acrimony
- Today's Word
Acrimony
AK-ruh-moh-nee
Definition
(noun) Bitterness or harshness in speech, behavior, or disposition.
Example
The acrimony between the former business partners was palpable at the hearing.
Fun Fact
“Acrimony” comes from the Latin acer, meaning “sharp.” It’s often used to describe cutting, hostile tone in arguments, especially when tension lingers. Acrimonious exchanges show up in political debates, divorce trials, or long-standing rivalries—where bitterness boils beneath the words.
Fecund
- Today's Word
Fecund
FEE-kund / FEK-und
Definition
(adjective) Highly fertile or productive, especially in generating ideas or growth.
Example
The fecund artist produced hundreds of sketches before finishing a single piece.
Fun Fact
“Fecund” shares roots with “fecundus,” meaning fruitful or rich, and applies to both biological fertility and intellectual creativity. In agriculture, it refers to abundance; in literature and art, it’s the creative force behind prolific output and innovation. It’s not just busy—it’s bursting with generative potential.
Esoteric
- Today's Word
Esoteric
ess-uh-TER-ik
Definition
(adjective) Understood or intended for only a small, specialized group with specific knowledge.
Example
The engineer’s esoteric explanation left the rest of the team bewildered.
Fun Fact
From Greek esōterikos (“inner”), “esoteric” once referred to secret teachings reserved for a select group. It now describes any knowledge that’s niche, technical, or inaccessible to outsiders—whether in philosophy, quantum physics, or 2000s video game lore.
Propitious
- Today's Word
Propitious
pruh-PISH-uhs
Definition
(adjective) Indicating a good chance of success; favorable or auspicious.
Example
It was a propitious moment to invest, as market conditions were ideal.
Fun Fact
“Propitious” stems from Latin propitius, meaning “gracious” or “favorable.” In historical texts, it often signaled divine blessing or omens, and in modern usage, it suggests timing or conditions that tilt luck or outcomes in your favor—whether in business, diplomacy, or chance.
Top 12 Benefits of Learning New Words
Expanding your vocabulary can offer a wide range of benefits that contribute to personal, academic, and professional growth. Learn some of the advantages.
