- Today's Word
Virtuoso
ver-choo-OH-soh
Definition
- (noun) A person highly skilled in a particular art, especially music.
Example
The young pianist was hailed as a virtuoso after her breathtaking performance.
Fun Fact
Originating from Italian, “virtuoso” was once a title of honor for someone who excelled in virtù, or virtue and excellence. Today, it refers mostly to musicians, artists, or anyone with elite mastery—think Mozart, Yo-Yo Ma, or Picasso. It’s also used beyond the arts, like a chess virtuoso or a tech virtuoso in Silicon Valley.
(noun) Extreme greed for wealth or material gain.
His avarice drove him to exploit every opportunity, no matter who was hurt in the process.
From Latin avaritia, meaning “greed” or “covetousness.”