Denigrate

Today's Word Denigrate DEN-ih-grayt Definition (verb) To unfairly criticize or belittle someone or something. Example His speech denigrated the work of his competitors without offering any real solutions. Fun Fact “Denigrate” comes from the Latin denigrare, meaning “to blacken.” It once had literal and figurative meanings, but today it’s used almost exclusively to describe verbal attacks. It’s especially common in political rhetoric and professional rivalries.  

Aggrandize

Today's Word Aggrandize uh-GRAN-dyz Definition (verb) To increase the power, status, or reputation of something or someone. Example The article was designed to aggrandize the CEO despite the controversy. Fun Fact The word aggrandize is especially common in political commentary and media analysis, where it’s used to describe how people or institutions boost their image—often through exaggeration or selective storytelling. From emperors commissioning elaborate monuments to CEOs inflating their personal contributions, aggrandizing has always been about shaping perception more than reality. In literature, characters who aggrandize themselves—like Jay Gatsby or Iago—use charm, power, or deception to climb socially or mask their flaws. The word carries a subtle criticism: it suggests that the growth is often more about appearing bigger than being better.

Sacrosanct

Today's Word Sacrosanct SAK-roh-sankt Definition (adjective) Regarded as too important or valuable to be interfered with. Example For many, the right to vote is sacrosanct. Fun Fact The concept of the “sacrosanct” has deep roots in ancient Roman religion and law, where certain temples, objects, and even people—like tribunes—were considered inviolable by decree. Harming them wasn’t just illegal; it was a religious offense. Today, the idea of sacrosanct still shows up in modern life: national constitutions, personal rituals (like morning coffee), and even time off from work are often treated as “off-limits” zones. It’s a word that’s moved from the sacred to the symbolic, and now shows up in debates over everything from privacy to free speech.

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.