- Today's Word
Metanoia
met-uh-NOY-uh
Definition
(noun) A profound transformation or change of mindset; a spiritual or psychological conversion.
Example
Traveling alone for a year sparked a deep metanoia, reshaping her priorities and sense of purpose.
Word Origin
From Greek meta- (“beyond” or “after”) + noia (“mind”), meaning “a shift of mind.”
Fun Fact
In ancient Greek philosophy, metanoia described a dramatic inner turning—a complete reorientation of how one sees the world. Today, psychologists associate the idea with breakthrough moments: sudden clarity after confusion, healing after loss, or the realization that your life must move in a new direction. Many cultures describe similar concepts—from epiphanies to spiritual awakenings—reflecting humanity’s timeless desire to grow beyond who we once were.