Felicitous
Today's Word Felicitous fuh-LISS-ih-tus Definition (adjective) Well-suited or appropriate for the occasion; pleasing in manner or style. Example Her speech was filled with felicitous phrases that brought laughter and applause. Fun Fact “Felicitous” shares a root with “felicity,” meaning happiness or bliss. It’s often used in writing and speeches to praise word choices that are especially fitting or graceful—perfectly timed compliments, witty turns of phrase, or the right joke at the right time.
Torpid
Today's Word Torpid TOR-pid Definition (adjective) Sluggish, inactive, or lacking energy. Example The heat left everyone feeling torpid and unmotivated. Fun Fact Animals in hibernation enter a torpid state to conserve energy. In humans, torpidity is more metaphorical—used to describe slow workdays, fatigue, or that post-lunch energy crash.
Noisome
Today's Word Noisome NOY-sum Definition (adjective) Having an extremely offensive smell; or generally unpleasant or harmful. Example The noisome odor from the dumpster drifted across the parking lot. Fun Fact Despite sounding like “noisy,” the word actually has nothing to do with sound. It comes from Middle English noy (meaning harm or annoyance), which also gave rise to “annoy.” Today, it’s a favorite in horror novels and urban planning reports alike.
Impute
Today's Word Impute im-PYOOT Definition (verb) To attribute an action, thought, or quality to someone, often falsely. Example The scandal was unfairly imputed to the assistant, who had no involvement. Fun Fact “Impute” is a favorite in legal and financial contexts, where responsibility or credit can be assigned—even without direct involvement. It’s often paired with “intent” in discussions of motive and accountability.
Demarcation
Today's Word Demarcation dee-mar-KAY-shun Definition (noun) The setting or marking of boundaries or limits; a clear distinction. Example The river served as a natural demarcation between the two properties. Fun Fact “Demarcation” is often used in both geography and workplace roles. Politically, demarcation lines have divided nations and empires. In management, clear demarcation of responsibilities can prevent conflict and promote efficiency.
Maxim
Today's Word Maxim MAK-sim Definition (noun) A short, pithy statement expressing a general truth or rule of conduct. Example He lived by the old maxim, “Honesty is the best policy.” Fun Fact Maxims have existed for thousands of years—from Confucian sayings to Latin proverbs to modern business mottos. A maxim is often passed down as cultural wisdom: brief, quotable, and powerful.
Calumny
Today's Word Calumny KAL-um-nee Definition (noun) A false and damaging statement meant to harm someone’s reputation. Example The candidate sued his rival for spreading calumny during the campaign. Fun Fact In ancient Rome, calumny was actually a punishable offense under the law. The word’s legal roots make it a favorite in political and journalistic commentary when false accusations fly.
Somnolent
Today's Word Somnolent SOM-nuh-lunt Definition (adjective) Sleepy or drowsy; inducing sleep. Example The somnolent atmosphere in the lecture hall was hard to resist. Fun Fact “Somnolent” doesn’t just describe people—music, lighting, or even a voice can be somnolent. It’s often used in travel writing and poetry to describe languid settings where time feels slow and eyes get heavy.
Acquiesce
Today's Word Acquiesce ak-wee-ESS Definition (verb) To accept something reluctantly but without protest. Example He acquiesced to the board’s decision, even though he disagreed. Fun Fact “Acquiesce” often appears in legal writing or formal agreements, describing passive consent. In pop culture, it shows up in scenes where characters silently give in—not out of agreement, but exhaustion, loyalty, or inevitability.
Expiate
Today's Word Expiate EK-spee-ayt Definition (verb) To atone for or make amends for wrongdoing. Example He volunteered at the shelter to expiate his earlier mistakes. Fun Fact “Expiate” often appears in religious or moral discussions, especially in literature. It’s a core theme in stories about redemption—whether a hero making things right or a villain seeking forgiveness. Think of Jean Valjean in Les Misérables.