FEH-ter
He was fettered by doubt, unable to move forward with his decision.
Fun Fact
Originally referring to literal chains, “fetter” has evolved to describe emotional, mental, or societal restraints—like fear, obligation, or prejudice. The word often appears in political or poetic writing as a symbol of what holds people back from freedom or progress.
RAIR-uh-fyd
(adjective) Distant from the ordinary; elevated, refined, or thin (as in air at high altitudes).
The scientist’s rarefied theories fascinated her peers but left the public scratching their heads.
From Latin rarefacere, meaning “to make thin.”
Fun Fact
Originally used in physics to describe air thinned at high altitudes, rarefied later took on a metaphorical sense—ideas, lifestyles, or circles of influence that exist far above everyday experience. A rarefied discussion might deal with abstract philosophy, while a rarefied atmosphere could describe both mountaintops and elite social circles. The word captures the tension between refinement and isolation—how elevation, whether intellectual or physical, can be both exhilarating and lonely.
Today's Word Salubrious suh-LOO-bree-us Definition (adjective) Health-giving; promoting well-being. Example...
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