Dearth
Today's Word Dearth DURTH Definition (noun) A lack or scarcity of something. Example There was a dearth of medical supplies after the storm. Fun Fact “Dearth” originally meant “high price” in Middle English, referring to scarcity driving up value. Over time, it evolved to mean any shortage—of food, resources, opportunities, or ideas. It’s often used in economic, academic, or policy contexts to highlight the urgency created by what’s missing.
Onerous
Today's Word Onerous OH-ner-uhs Definition (adjective) Burdensome, oppressive, or difficult to carry out. Example Fulfilling the contract’s onerous terms drained their finances and energy. Fun Fact Derived from the Latin onus, meaning “burden,” onerous is often used in legal or financial settings to describe obligations that are more trouble than they’re worth. From taxes to chores to unfair contracts, an onerous task is one that weighs heavily—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too.
Truculent
Today's Word Truculent TRUCK-yuh-luhnt Definition (adjective) Aggressively defiant or eager to argue or fight. Example The truculent debate spiraled into personal attacks within minutes. Fun Fact “Truculent” comes from the Latin truculentus, meaning “fierce” or “savage.” Originally used to describe wild beasts or ruthless warriors, it eventually came to characterize hostile personalities or verbally combative behavior. In literature and politics, truculence often signals a character—or candidate—ready to pick a fight, even when diplomacy would serve better.
Vacillate
Today's Word Vacillate VASS-uh-layt Definition (verb) To waver between different opinions or actions; to be indecisive. Example She vacillated between staying at her job and going back to school. Fun Fact “Vacillate” comes from Latin vacillare, meaning “to sway.” It conjures images of someone teetering on a decision like a tightrope. Politicians are often accused of vacillating, but so are most of us when faced with big life choices. It’s not weakness—it’s weighing options.
Staid
Today's Word Staid STAYD Definition (adjective) Sedate, respectable, and unadventurous. Example The staid atmosphere of the boardroom left little room for creativity. Fun Fact Originally a variation of “stay,” staid describes someone or something that is firm, steady, and not easily moved—perfect for judges, bankers, or characters in old British novels. But while stability is good, staid sometimes hints at being a little too dull or rigid.
Pejorative
Today's Word Pejorative puh-JOR-uh-tiv Definition (adjective/noun) Expressing contempt or disapproval; a word or phrase that belittles. Example Calling it a “scheme” instead of a “plan” gave it a pejorative spin. Fun Fact Pejoratives are everywhere—“geek,” “bureaucrat,” “snowflake.” Words can shift over time too: “nerd” once was pejorative, now it’s proudly reclaimed. Linguists study how these terms evolve and how language both reflects and shapes social power.
Maudlin
Today's Word Maudlin MAWD-lin Definition (adjective) Excessively emotional or sentimental, often in a self-pitying way. Example After a few drinks, he became maudlin and talked endlessly about his lost love. Fun Fact “Maudlin” comes from Mary Magdalene, often portrayed crying in religious art. The word now applies to tearful sentimentality, especially when it feels over-the-top or indulgent. Think rom-coms with dramatic monologues or overly nostalgic holiday ads.
Impetuous
Today's Word Impetuous im-PECH-oo-uhs Definition (adjective) Acting quickly and without thought or care; impulsive. Example His impetuous decision to quit his job left him scrambling for options. Fun Fact “Impetuous” comes from Latin impetere, meaning “to attack.” It describes decisions made in the heat of the moment—often dramatic, sometimes disastrous. Romeo and Juliet? Totally impetuous. But so are startup founders, comedians, and adventurers—when it works, it’s brilliant.
Rhapsodize
Today's Word Rhapsodize RAP-suh-dyze Definition (verb) To speak or write with great enthusiasm or delight. Example She rhapsodized about her trip to Greece, describing every sunset in poetic detail. Fun Fact The word is linked to rhapsodes, ancient Greek performers who recited epic poems with great emotion. Today, “rhapsodize” suggests gushing admiration—for a vacation, a concert, a dish, or even a person. It’s less about logic, more about passion and awe.
Pithy
Today's Word Pithy PITH-ee Definition (adjective) Concise and forcefully expressive. Example Her pithy reply summed up the entire argument in one sentence. Fun Fact “Pith” refers to the essence or core of something, and a pithy comment gets right to that core. Famous pithy speakers include Winston Churchill and Oscar Wilde, known for delivering wit and wisdom in just a few well-chosen words. The best slogans and comebacks? Almost always pithy.