Iconoclast

Today's Word Iconoclast eye-KON-uh-klast Definition (noun) A person who attacks or criticizes cherished beliefs or established institutions. Example The filmmaker built a reputation as an iconoclast, unafraid to challenge industry norms. Word Origin Mid 17th century: from Greek eikonoklastēs, from eikōn ‘icon’ + klastēs ‘breaker’ (from klan, ‘to break’). Originally referred to those who destroyed religious icons. Fun Fact Although it began as a term for religious defacers during the Byzantine Empire, iconoclast eventually took on a broader meaning. Today, it applies to anyone who disrupts tradition or challenges orthodoxy—from artists and entrepreneurs to scientists and comedians. Being called an iconoclast can be either a badge of honor or a warning label, depending on the company you keep.

Jurisprudence

Today's Word Jurisprudence joor-is-PROO-dens Definition (noun) The theory or philosophy of law. Example The professor’s lectures focused on classical and modern jurisprudence. Word Origin Early 17th century: from late Latin jurisprudentia, from Latin jus, jur- ‘law’ + prudentia ‘knowledge’. Fun Fact Jurisprudence isn’t just about laws—it’s about why laws exist, how they’re interpreted, and what they should achieve. It’s a cornerstone of legal education and is often divided into schools of thought: natural law, legal positivism, critical legal theory, and more. While lawyers practice law, jurisprudence is for those who want to debate the very foundations of justice.

Bellicose

Today's Word Bellicose BEL-ih-kohs Definition (adjective) Demonstrating aggression and a willingness to fight. Example The athlete’s bellicose attitude made him feared—and often penalized. Fun Fact From Latin bellum, meaning “war,” bellicose describes people who don’t just argue—they thrive on confrontation. It’s stronger than “aggressive,” and often shows up in political commentary, historical writing, or sports journalism. You’ll see it used when someone doesn’t just fight back—they lead with hostility, often as a strategy.

Edify

Today's Word Edify ED-uh-fye Definition (verb) To instruct or improve someone morally or intellectually. Example The speaker hoped his words would edify the audience, not just entertain them. Fun Fact Edify comes from Latin aedificare, meaning “to build”—and that metaphor still holds. When you edify someone, you’re building them up with knowledge or insight. It’s often used in religious or philosophical contexts, but also applies to writing, art, or film that challenges us to think more deeply. A TED Talk can be informative—but the really good ones? They edify.

Affable

Today's Word Affable AF-uh-buhl Definition (adjective) Friendly, approachable, and pleasant in manner. Example His affable nature made him an instant favorite at every party. Fun Fact From Latin affari, meaning “to speak to,” affable describes someone who not only talks to others—but makes them feel comfortable while doing it. It’s frequently used in character profiles, political campaigns, and even performance reviews. Being affable isn’t just about being nice—it’s about being welcoming without trying too hard.

Unfledged

Today's Word Unfledged un-FLEJD Definition (adjective) Inexperienced or immature; not yet developed. Example The intern was talented but still unfledged in a high-pressure newsroom. Fun Fact Originally used to describe baby birds without feathers—unfledged later took on a figurative meaning to describe people lacking the “feathers” of experience. Shakespeare used it in Romeo and Juliet, and it still pops up today in political commentary or sports coverage, often with a mix of pity and hope. Think of it as the literary way to say, “You’re not quite ready yet.”

Moratorium

Today's Word Moratorium mor-uh-TOR-ee-um Definition (noun) A temporary suspension or delay of an activity, often by legal authority. Example The city announced a moratorium on new construction permits. Fun Fact Moratorium is often used in legal, governmental, or corporate settings to put a temporary halt to something controversial or under review—think eviction moratoriums or moratoriums on drilling. It originally comes from Latin morari, meaning “to delay.” You’ll often hear it in debates around environmental policy, legislation, and labor strikes—where it signals a pause, but not a solution.

Inexorable

Today's Word Inexorable in-EKS-uh-ruh-buhl Definition (adjective) Impossible to stop, persuade, or prevent. Example The inexorable advance of technology reshaped every industry. Fun Fact Inexorable is a favorite in literature and history writing—used to describe forces, people, or progress that cannot be swayed. It originally referred to people who wouldn’t respond to pleading, but now it also captures time, decay, destiny, or power. It’s often used to describe change that is slow but certain, like rising tides or demographic shifts.

Obloquy

Today's Word Obloquy OB-luh-kwee Definition (noun) Strong public criticism or verbal abuse. Example The whistleblower endured weeks of obloquy from former allies. Fun Fact Derived from Latin ob (against) and loqui (to speak), obloquy is more than just criticism—it’s reputation-damaging, widespread condemnation. Historically used in political and religious contexts, it now shows up in media scandals and cancel culture debates. What sets obloquy apart from “criticism” is its publicness and intensity—it’s the backlash you feel everywhere.

Heterodox

Today's Word Heterodox HET-er-uh-doks Definition (adjective) Not conforming to accepted or traditional beliefs or standards. Example Her heterodox views on education reform drew both criticism and applause. Fun Fact Heterodox blends Greek heteros (other) and doxa (opinion), and it’s long been used to describe those who break away from religious, political, or philosophical orthodoxy. Unlike “heretical,” which can imply moral wrongdoing, heterodox often signals intellectual bravery or innovation. It’s frequently used to describe economists, artists, and thought leaders who challenge convention without necessarily rejecting it entirely.