Repose
Today's Word Repose ruh-POHZ Definition (noun) A state of rest, tranquility, or calm. Example After months of stress, she finally found repose on the quiet lakeshore. Fun Fact Repose has long been a favorite theme in art and literature, often used to depict not just physical rest, but deeper ideas of peace, death, or emotional resolution. In classical painting, figures in repose symbolize serenity or surrender, as seen in Renaissance works by Titian or Botticelli. Even in modern contexts, the word is used metaphorically—finding repose might mean achieving a moment of clarity, relief, or inner calm after a long period of conflict or exhaustion.
Convivial
Today's Word Convivial kun-VIV-ee-uhl Definition (adjective) Cheerful and friendly; fond of socializing. Example The host’s convivial energy made everyone feel welcome. Fun Fact “Convivial” comes from Latin roots meaning “to live together”—and it originally referred to shared meals. Think long dinners, clinking glasses, and group laughter. It’s still used for parties and gatherings where the atmosphere feels warm and festive.
Ostensible
Today's Word Ostensible ah-STEN-suh-buhl Definition (adjective) Stated or appearing to be true, but not necessarily so. Example His ostensible reason for quitting was stress, but rumors pointed to deeper issues. Fun Fact The word ostensible is often used in social commentary and psychology, especially when discussing the gap between appearance and reality. In interpersonal relationships, people may offer ostensible reasons for actions—like ending a friendship or quitting a job—when deeper motives remain unspoken. The tension between what seems true and what actually is makes ostensible a powerful tool for manipulation, misdirection, and mystery.
Morass
Today's Word Morass muh-RASS Definition (noun) A complicated or confusing situation; literally, a swamp. Example They found themselves in a legal morass with no clear way forward. Fun Fact Originally a term for a literal bog, “morass” now often describes bureaucratic, emotional, or political messes. It’s a favorite of journalists covering gridlocked governments or corporate chaos.
Indigent
Today's Word Indigent IN-dih-jent Definition (adjective) Lacking money or basic necessities; impoverished. Example The foundation provides aid to indigent families during the winter. Fun Fact “Indigent” shows up often in legal systems—like “indigent defense,” where courts provide attorneys to those who can’t afford one. The word is more formal than “poor,” often appearing in policy and grant language.
Disrepute
Today's Word Disrepute dis-rih-PYOOT Definition (noun) The state of having a bad reputation. Example The scandal threw the company into disrepute almost overnight. Fun Fact Disrepute is often used in legal, corporate, or academic contexts—anywhere reputation really matters. Unlike scandal or shame, disrepute doesn’t always result from wrongdoing; sometimes it’s a result of association or even rumor.
Credulity
Today's Word Credulity kruh-DOO-lih-tee Definition (noun) A tendency to believe things too easily or readily. Example Scammers often rely on the credulity of their victims to succeed. Fun Fact While “credulity” might sound like a compliment, it’s rarely used that way. It often appears in critiques of conspiracy theories or scams, highlighting the fine line between open-mindedness and gullibility.
Prosaic
Today's Word Prosaic pro-ZAY-ik Definition (adjective) Lacking poetic beauty; straightforward or dull. Example His prosaic description of the event missed the emotional impact entirely. Fun Fact From the same root as “prose,” prosaic was once a neutral word. Now, it’s often a subtle critique—used when something feels flat, unimaginative, or just plain practical. A prosaic solution might work, but it won’t inspire headlines.
Trenchant
Today's Word Trenchant TREN-chunt Definition (adjective) vigorous or incisive in expression or style. Example Her trenchant critique left the audience silent and reflective. Fun Fact “Trenchant” originally referred to literal cutting—like a sword’s edge. Today, it describes commentary or analysis that slices straight to the point. It’s often used in journalism and debate when someone’s words are especially clear, bold, and insightful.
Vacuous
Today's Word Vacuous VAK-yoo-us Definition (adjective) Lacking thought, intelligence, or meaning. Example The President’s speech was filled with vacuous slogans and lacked substance. Fun Fact Vacuous is closely related to the word “vacuum”—think of something hollow or devoid of content. It’s frequently used in media criticism to describe interviews, reality TV dialogue, or political statements that sound nice but say nothing.