- Today's Word
Metanoia
met-uh-NOY-uh
Definition
- (noun) A profound transformation or change in one’s life, perspective, or way of thinking, often involving spiritual or emotional growth.
Example
After her travels abroad, she experienced a metanoia that reshaped her values and priorities.
Fun Fact
Metanoia comes from the Greek meta- (“change”) and noia (“mind” or “thought”). Originally used in theological contexts to describe repentance or turning toward God, it has since broadened to include any significant personal transformation. The term underscores humanity’s capacity for growth and renewal, often in the face of profound challenges or insights.
(noun) Excessive confidence or boldness; rashness in the face of danger or opposition without regard for consequences.
The junior analyst had the temerity to challenge the CEO’s projections in front of the entire board — and was proven right six months later.
Temerity derives from the Latin temeritas, meaning “rashness” or “blind chance,” rooted in temere — “rashly” or “by chance” — suggesting action taken without looking, in the dark, without regard for what might be coming. It entered English in the 15th century carrying its full Latin sense of dangerous, heedless boldness — the kind that mistakes the absence of fear for the presence of wisdom.