Impecunious
Today's Word Impecunious im-pih-KYOO-nee-uhs Definition (adjective) Lacking money; having little or no financial resources. Example The impecunious artist survived on his passion for painting rather than his earnings. Fun Fact “Impecunious” comes from the Latin im- (“not”) and pecunia (“money”), which originally referred to wealth in livestock. In literature, impecunious characters often appear as struggling yet resourceful figures, from Charles Dickens’ debt-ridden protagonists to young dreamers chasing success.
Vestige
Today's Word Vestige VES-tij Definition (noun) A trace or remnant of something that once existed but is now lost or diminished. Example The ancient ruins were the last vestige of a once-thriving civilization. Fun Fact “Vestige” comes from the Latin vestigium, meaning “footprint” or “track.” It suggests something left behind, whether a physical remnant (like fossils) or a metaphorical one (like outdated traditions). Scientists often study vestigial structures in animals, such as the human appendix, as clues to evolutionary history.
Truncate
Today's Word Truncate TRUN-kayt Definition (verb) To shorten something by cutting off a part, especially at the end. Example The article had to be truncated to fit within the magazine’s word limit. Fun Fact “Truncate” comes from the Latin truncare, meaning “to cut off.” The concept appears in various fields, from botany (truncated leaves) to mathematics (truncated numbers). Digital systems often truncate text when displaying character limits, a feature familiar to anyone who’s seen a message cut off on social media.
Limpid
Today's Word Limpid LIM-pid Definition (adjective) Clear or transparent, especially of water or glass. Easy to understand or free from complexity. Example The lake’s limpid waters reflected the sky like a perfect mirror. Fun Fact “Limpid” originates from the Latin limpidus, meaning “clear” or “bright.” The word is often used in poetry and literature to describe pure water, clear skies, or expressive eyes. It’s a favorite among writers who aim to capture serene and undisturbed beauty.
Transient
Today's Word Transient TRAN-zee-uhnt (or TRAN-shuhnt) Definition (adjective) Lasting only for a short time; temporary. (noun) A person who stays in a place temporarily. Example Their friendship was transient, fading quickly as their lives moved in different directions. Fun Fact The word “transient” comes from the Latin transire, meaning “to go across” or “pass through.” It’s commonly used in physics, describing short-lived phenomena, and in travel, referring to temporary visitors. The phrase “transient beauty” captures the fleeting nature of certain experiences, reminding us to appreciate the moment.
Harangue
Today's Word Harangue huh-RANG Definition (noun) A long, passionate, and often angry speech or lecture. (verb) To deliver a forceful or critical speech. Example The coach harangued the team after their lackluster performance in the first half. Fun Fact “Harangue” traces back to medieval Latin and Old Italian, originally referring to a public speech before a crowd. While once neutral, the word evolved to imply a heated, critical lecture. Historically, great orators like Cicero and Martin Luther were known for their powerful harangues, influencing politics and social movements.
Caustic
Today's Word Caustic KAW-stik Definition (adjective) Capable of burning, corroding, or destroying organic tissue. Harshly critical or sarcastic. Example His caustic wit often left people unsure whether to laugh or take offense. Fun Fact The word “caustic” originally comes from the Greek kaustikos, meaning “burning.” While it first described substances that physically burned, it later extended to describe sharp, biting remarks that metaphorically “burn” through conversation. Some of history’s most famous figures, including Winston Churchill and Dorothy Parker, were known for their caustic humor.
Nadir
Today's Word Nadir NAY-deer (or NAY-der) Definition (noun) The lowest point or moment, either literally or figuratively. Example After losing his job and home, he felt he had reached the nadir of his life. Fun Fact In astronomy, nadir refers to the point directly opposite the zenith, beneath the observer. Figuratively, it’s used to describe life’s low points, offering contrast to moments of triumph and resilience.
Guile
Today's Word Guile GYLE Definition (noun) Clever or cunning deceit, often used to achieve a goal. Example Through guile and strategy, the hero outwitted the villain and saved the kingdom. Fun Fact Guile is often portrayed as a negative trait, but many classic heroes, like Odysseus in The Odyssey, relied on their wits and guile to navigate challenges. It demonstrates how cunning can be a double-edged sword.
Blandish
Today's Word Blandish BLAN-dish Definition (verb) To coax or persuade someone through flattery or gentle words. Example She blandished her parents with compliments in hopes of borrowing the car for the evening. Fun Fact Blandishment, the noun form, often appears in literature to describe characters manipulating others. Shakespeare frequently used the concept of blandishment to showcase the power dynamics in relationships.