Fun Fact

Derived from the Latin onus, meaning “burden,” onerous is often used in legal or financial settings to describe obligations that are more trouble than they’re worth. From taxes to chores to unfair contracts, an onerous task is one that weighs heavily—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too.

Fun Fact

“Truculent” comes from the Latin truculentus, meaning “fierce” or “savage.” Originally used to describe wild beasts or ruthless warriors, it eventually came to characterize hostile personalities or verbally combative behavior. In literature and politics, truculence often signals a character—or candidate—ready to pick a fight, even when diplomacy would serve better.

Fun Fact

“Vacillate” comes from Latin vacillare, meaning “to sway.” It conjures images of someone teetering on a decision like a tightrope. Politicians are often accused of vacillating, but so are most of us when faced with big life choices. It’s not weakness—it’s weighing options.

Fun Fact

Originally a variation of “stay,” staid describes someone or something that is firm, steady, and not easily moved—perfect for judges, bankers, or characters in old British novels. But while stability is good, staid sometimes hints at being a little too dull or rigid.

Fun Fact

Pejoratives are everywhere—“geek,” “bureaucrat,” “snowflake.” Words can shift over time too: “nerd” once was pejorative, now it’s proudly reclaimed. Linguists study how these terms evolve and how language both reflects and shapes social power.

Fun Fact

“Maudlin” comes from Mary Magdalene, often portrayed crying in religious art. The word now applies to tearful sentimentality, especially when it feels over-the-top or indulgent. Think rom-coms with dramatic monologues or overly nostalgic holiday ads.