Beseech
Today's Word Beseech buh-SEECH Definition (verb) To ask someone urgently and fervently; to beg or implore. Example She beseeched her friend to forgive her after the argument. Fun Fact Used as far back as the Middle Ages, “beseech” carries a tone of humility and desperation. In Shakespeare’s plays, characters often beseech gods, kings, and loved ones, emphasizing their helplessness or sincerity. Today, the word still conveys a depth of feeling beyond a simple “please.”
Vociferous
Today's Word Vociferous voh-SIF-er-uhs Definition (adjective) Crying out noisily; loud, forceful, and insistent in speech or behavior. Example The vociferous crowd at the protest could be heard blocks away. Fun Fact “Vociferous” combines the Latin vox (voice) and ferre (to carry), literally meaning “to carry the voice.” The word doesn’t just mean loud—it implies passion, persistence, and refusal to be ignored. It’s often used to describe activists, critics, or fans who make their presence known—loudly and clearly.
Penurious
Today's Word Penurious puh-NYOOR-ee-uhs Definition (adjective) Extremely poor; unwilling to spend money; stingy. Example The penurious landlord refused to fix the broken heating system during winter. Fun Fact “Penurious” shares roots with the word penury, meaning extreme poverty. But beyond being poor, it also implies miserly behavior—think Ebenezer Scrooge before his Christmas transformation. The word paints a picture of both lack and refusal: having little and holding tight to what little one has.
Impinge
Today's Word Impinge im-PINJ Definition (verb) To intrude upon or negatively affect something or someone, often by limiting or interfering. Example The new law may impinge on individual freedoms if not carefully revised. Fun Fact From the Latin impingere (“to strike or press upon”), “impinge” originally had a physical meaning—like waves impinging on a cliff. Over time, it took on a more figurative meaning, referring to violations of boundaries—legal, personal, or ethical. Whether it’s noise impinging on concentration or rules impinging on freedom, the word always suggests an unwanted intrusion.
Abject
Today's Word Abject AB-jekt Definition (adjective) Extremely bad, degrading, or wretched; experienced or present to the maximum degree. Example They lived in abject poverty, with little food or shelter to get through the winter. Fun Fact “Abject” comes from the Latin abjicere, meaning “to throw away.” Originally referring to someone cast down or rejected, the term evolved to describe utter hopelessness or misery. It’s commonly used to emphasize emotional extremes—abject fear, abject failure, abject humiliation—highlighting situations where someone feels completely defeated or exposed.
Polemic
Today's Word Polemic puh-LEM-ik Definition (noun) A strong argument or attack against someone or something. Example His polemic against corporate greed went viral, igniting fierce debate. Fun Fact Many of history’s most famous thinkers—Voltaire, Karl Marx, and Susan B. Anthony—were polemicists who used sharp arguments to challenge the status quo. Whether in political speeches, controversial essays, or heated debates, polemics are meant to stir emotions and provoke change.
Intractable
Today's Word Intractable in-TRAK-tuh-buhl Definition (adjective) Difficult to manage, control, or solve; stubborn. Example The negotiations became intractable when neither side would compromise. Fun Fact Intractability has been studied in psychology and conflict resolution. From difficult personalities to historical conflicts that seem impossible to resolve, the key to dealing with intractable problems often lies in patience, diplomacy, and creativity. Even legendary figures like Winston Churchill were famously intractable, refusing to back down even in dire situations.
Modicum
Today's Word Modicum MOD-ih-kuhm Definition (noun) A small or moderate amount of something. Example Even a modicum of kindness can brighten someone’s day. Fun Fact “Modicum” originates from Latin, meaning “a small measure.” The word is often used sarcastically—if someone says, “He showed a modicum of patience,” they probably mean barely any. Even in law, a modicum of evidence can sometimes be enough to change the course of a trial.
Venerate
Today's Word Venerate VEN-uh-rayt Definition (verb) To deeply respect, admire, or hold in high regard. Example Generations of artists venerate Michelangelo as one of the greatest painters in history. Fun Fact Veneration is deeply embedded in many cultures and religions. In Buddhism, followers venerate the Buddha and sacred texts; in Christianity, saints are venerated for their faith and sacrifice. The practice extends beyond religion—national heroes, intellectual figures, and even objects (like the U.S. Constitution) can be venerated for their historical or moral significance..
Quotidian
Today's Word Quotidian kwoh-TID-ee-uhn Definition (adjective) Happening every day; ordinary or routine. Example Though quotidian, her morning coffee ritual brought her immense comfort. Fun Fact “Quotidian” comes from the Latin quotidianus, meaning “daily.” While it often describes mundane routines, many writers and philosophers celebrate the beauty of everyday life. The poet William Wordsworth found inspiration in quotidian moments, turning simple walks and ordinary people into powerful poetry. In psychology, mindfulness practices encourage people to appreciate the quotidian rather than overlook it.