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.

Platitude

Today's Word Platitude PLAT-uh-tood Definition (noun) An overused remark or cliché that lacks originality. Example Tired of hearing the same old platitudes, she rolled her eyes at “Everything happens for a reason.” Fun Fact Platitudes are common in motivational speeches, political campaigns, and greeting cards. While they may offer temporary comfort, their overuse diminishes their impact. George Orwell criticized political platitudes in his essay Politics and the English Language, arguing that such empty phrases often mask real issues. Interestingly, many platitudes—such as “good things come to those who wait”—contradict each other, making them even less meaningful.

Congruity

Today's Word Congruity kuhn-GROO-uh-tee Definition (noun) A state of agreement, harmony, or logical consistency. Example There was an obvious congruity between his words and actions. Fun Fact Congruity is a crucial concept in mathematics, where it describes figures that match perfectly. But it extends far beyond geometry—literature, philosophy, and psychology all explore the idea that harmony and alignment create order and understanding. Aristotle’s theory of virtue ethics is based on congruity between beliefs and actions, emphasizing that a virtuous life requires consistency between what we say and what we do.

Noxious

Today's Word Noxious NOK-shuhs Definition (adjective) Harmful, poisonous, or dangerous to health. Example The noxious fumes from the factory forced the town to evacuate. Fun Fact “Noxious” comes from the Latin noxa, meaning “harm” or “injury.” Historically, it was used to describe deadly gases, polluted air, and poisonous plants. In literature, Shakespeare frequently referenced noxious substances, such as the poison that killed Hamlet’s father. Beyond physical dangers, the word has taken on a figurative meaning, applying to toxic relationships, manipulative people, and harmful ideologies—reminding us that not all poisons come in a bottle.

Effulgent

Today's Word Effulgent ih-FUL-juhnt Definition (adjective) Radiating brilliance, light, or joy. Example Her effulgent smile brightened even the gloomiest room. Fun Fact “Effulgent” comes from the Latin effulgere, meaning “to shine forth.” Though often used to describe literal light, such as the glow of the sun or a dazzling stage performance, it can also describe an inner radiance. Historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Princess Diana were often described as effulgent, not for physical light, but for their presence and ability to uplift others with their energy and charisma.

Abnegation

Today's Word Abnegation ab-nuh-GAY-shun Definition (noun) The act of renouncing or rejecting something, often for moral or selfless reasons. Example His abnegation of wealth in favor of charity inspired many. Fun Fact Abnegation has long been a cornerstone of religious and philosophical traditions. In Buddhism, renouncing worldly pleasures is a path toward enlightenment, while in Stoic philosophy, self-denial fosters discipline and inner strength. Historical figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Mother Teresa practiced abnegation in their dedication to service. Even in literature, self-sacrificing heroes—like Sydney Carton in A Tale of Two Cities—exemplify abnegation by putting others before themselves.

Gamut

Today's Word Gamut GAM-uht Definition (noun) The complete range or scope of something. Example The festival featured a gamut of musical styles, from jazz to electronic dance music. Fun Fact “Gamut” originally referred to the full musical scale in medieval music notation. Over time, it expanded to describe anything that covers a broad spectrum—whether it’s emotions, experiences, or flavors on a tasting menu.

Knotty

Today's Word Knotty NOT-ee Definition (adjective) Difficult, complicated, or full of problems. Example The detective faced a knotty case with no clear leads. Fun Fact Originally describing wood with lots of knots, “knotty” became a metaphor for difficult problems—just like tangled string, some issues require patience and skill to unravel. The Gordian Knot, an ancient legend about an unsolvable problem, still symbolizes tricky challenges today.

Variegated

Today's Word Variegated VAIR-ee-uh-gay-tid Definition (adjective) Having many different colors or variations. Example The garden was filled with variegated leaves, their green surfaces streaked with white and yellow. Fun Fact Variegated patterns aren’t just for decoration—many plants develop them as a form of natural camouflage. Some scientists also believe that variegation helps deter herbivores, who may mistake streaked leaves for diseased or unhealthy plants.

Umbrage

Today's Word Umbrage UM-brij Definition (noun) Offense or annoyance. Shade, especially from trees. Example He took umbrage at the suggestion that his work wasn’t original. Fun Fact Originally, “umbrage” simply meant “shade” (from the Latin umbra). Over time, it evolved metaphorically—just as people retreat into the shade to escape the sun, they might retreat emotionally when they feel insulted.