- Today's Word
Wangle
[WANG-guhl]
Definition
- (verb) To obtain something through clever, often devious means. It implies manipulating a situation or persuading someone in a crafty or ingenious way to achieve a desired outcome.
Example
Despite the “sold out” sign, Sarah managed to wangle two tickets to the concert by convincing the box office manager that she was a music critic.
Fun Fact
The origin of “wangle” is uncertain, but it first appeared in British slang in the early 20th century. Some linguists speculate it might be related to the Old English word “wancol,” meaning unstable or unsteady. Others suggest it could be connected to the verb “waggle,” implying a sort of back-and-forth movement that could metaphorically represent manipulation. The term gained popularity during World War I, often used by soldiers to describe obtaining something through unofficial channels. Today, while it can imply a degree of deviousness, “wangle” is often used more lightheartedly to describe clever problem-solving or resourcefulness.
(adjective) Sweet and soothing to the ear; melodious and gentle in sound
The dulcet tones of the jazz trio drifted through the open windows and out into the warm evening air.
Dulcet derives from the Old French doucet, a diminutive of doux (“sweet”), itself from the Latin dulcis (“sweet”). It entered English in the 15th century, used first in music and poetry to describe sounds of particular sweetness and gentleness, and has retained that musical, lyrical quality ever since.