- Today's Word
Natty
NAT-ee
Definition
(adjective) Neat, stylish, and fashionable in appearance.
Example
He arrived at the party looking especially natty in a velvet jacket and bow tie.
Fun Fact
Though natty may sound like a nickname, it’s actually been around since the 18th century to describe someone with an impeccable sense of style. Originally tied to British street fashion and military uniforms, it’s since become a word often used in style reviews, especially for men’s tailoring and vintage aesthetics.
(adjective) Severe or strict in manner or appearance; having no comforts or luxuries; pleasingly simple and unadorned.
The monastery’s austere design — bare stone walls, minimal furniture, and no decoration — was intentional, meant to keep the monks focused on contemplation rather than comfort.
Austere comes from the Greek austēros, meaning “harsh” or “rough to the taste,” originally used to describe the bitter, drying quality of unripe fruit. The word passed into Latin as austerus and then into Old French before arriving in English in the 14th century. Its early use referred to physical sensations before expanding to describe strict, unadorned behavior and environments.