- Today's Word
Irascible
[ih-RASS-uh-bul]
Definition
- (adjective) Someone who is easily angered or prone to outbursts of temper. It refers to a person who is irritable, quick-tempered, and easily provoked to anger.
Example
The irascible old man on the corner was known for shouting at kids who dared to step on his perfectly manicured lawn.
Fun Fact
The word “irascible” comes from the Latin word “irascibilis,” which is derived from “irasci” meaning “to be angry.” It entered the English language in the late 16th century. Interestingly, it shares its root with the word “ire,” meaning anger or wrath. In medieval times, irascibility was considered one of the seven deadly sins, associated with wrath. Today, while it’s not considered a sin, being irascible is generally seen as an undesirable personality trait. The word’s survival in modern English showcases our enduring need to describe complex emotional states with precision and color.
(verb) To anticipate and prevent a problem or difficulty before it arises; to make something unnecessary.
The new software didn’t fix the error — it obviated the conditions that produced it, which is a considerably more elegant solution.