Corpulence
Today's Word Corpulence KOR-pyuh-lens Definition (noun) The state of being excessively overweight. Example Historical portraits often glorified corpulence as a sign of wealth. Fun Fact In past centuries, corpulence was associated with prosperity and high status—a far cry from today’s ideals. The word is still used in medical and formal writing, but now with more sensitivity.
Potentate
Today's Word Potentate POH-ten-tayt Definition (noun) A powerful ruler or monarch. Example The potentate ruled the region for decades with unquestioned authority. Fun Fact The term “potentate” has a royal ring to it, but it can also be used ironically. You might hear it in reference to a micromanaging boss or a puffed-up HOA president.
Impervious
Today's Word Impervious im-PUR-vee-us Definition (adjective) Not allowing something to pass through; unaffected by external influences. Example She remained impervious to criticism, focused entirely on her goal. Fun Fact Originally used to describe waterproof materials, “impervious” has become metaphorical over time. Now you might hear it in business meetings or therapy sessions to describe emotional resilience.
Adumbrate
Today's Word Adumbrate AD-um-brayt Definition (verb) To foreshadow or suggest something partially or vaguely. Example The novel adumbrates a political crisis that mirrors real-world tensions. Fun Fact From Latin “adumbratus,” meaning “to shadow or sketch out,” the term is common in literary and legal contexts. In Supreme Court opinions, justices may adumbrate future positions without making full arguments.
Redoubtable
Today's Word Redoubtable ree-DOW-tuh-bul Definition (adjective) Formidable and commanding respect, especially because of strength or ability. Example She was a redoubtable opponent in the courtroom, known for her precision and intensity. Fun Fact Though it includes “doubt” in its spelling, “redoubtable” is no contradiction. It comes from Old French and Latin, meaning to be feared and respected. It’s often used to describe generals, debaters, or intellectuals who are almost intimidating in their brilliance.
Obstinate
Today's Word Obstinate OB-stuh-nut Definition (adjective) Stubbornly refusing to change one’s opinion or course of action. Example Despite undeniable evidence, he remained obstinate in his belief that the earth was flat. Fun Fact “Obstinate” shares roots with the word “obstacle.” While it’s often negative, the trait has sometimes been admired in revolutionaries, inventors, and activists. Historical figures from Galileo to Rosa Parks were once described as obstinate for defying norms.
Insipid
Today's Word Insipid in-SIP-id Definition (adjective) Lacking flavor, excitement, or interest; dull. Example The professor’s insipid lecture made it hard for anyone to stay awake. Fun Fact While its original culinary usage referred to tasteless food, “insipid” has become more commonly used to criticize bland writing, uninspired conversations, or lifeless performances. Film and literary critics often use it to describe works that fail to evoke any emotional response.
Edict
Today's Word Edict EE-dikt Definition (noun) An official order or proclamation issued by someone in authority. Example The emperor’s edict banned all public gatherings for the rest of the month. Fun Fact The word “edict” is often associated with royal declarations. One of the most famous is the Edict of Milan (313 AD), which helped establish religious tolerance in the Roman Empire. In modern contexts, it still carries a weight of top-down control, from corporate memos to government mandates.
Circumspect
Today's Word Circumspect SUR-kum-spekt Definition (adjective) Careful to consider all risks and consequences before acting. Example The attorney remained circumspect during the negotiations, declining to rush into any decisions. Fun Fact While “circumspect” may sound like a formal word, its roots simply mean “to look around.” In ancient Rome, it was considered a virtue to act with circumspection in matters of state and war. Today, it’s a favorite in business, diplomacy, and even parenting—anywhere caution is considered a strength.
Wanton
Today's Word Wanton WAHN-tuhn Definition (adjective) Excessive, deliberate, and unrestrained—especially in a cruel or reckless way. Example The villain’s wanton destruction of the town shocked even his most loyal followers. Fun Fact In Shakespearean times, “wanton” was often used to describe lustful or unchaste behavior, but over the centuries, it expanded to cover all kinds of reckless or unjustifiable actions—from violent destruction to excessive luxury. It remains a favorite in legal language for actions that cross ethical lines.