Pert

Today's Word Pert PERT Definition (adjective) Lively, bold, or cheeky, especially in an endearing way. Small and attractively neat. Example Her pert response to the professor’s question made the whole class chuckle. Fun Fact “Pert” once meant “clever” in Middle English but evolved to describe liveliness with a hint of sass. A “pert nose” is small and upturned, while a “pert remark” has just enough spunk to be amusing, not offensive.

Indignation

Today's Word Indignation in-dig-NAY-shun Definition (Noun) Strong anger or annoyance at something perceived as unfair or unjust. Example Her indignation grew when she realized she was being paid less than her colleagues for the same work. Fun Fact Indignation isn’t just any kind of anger—it’s a moral response to perceived injustice. Many of history’s greatest movements, from civil rights to labor protests, have been fueled by collective indignation, proving that sometimes, outrage sparks change.

Duplicity

Today's Word Duplicity doo-PLIS-uh-tee (or dyoo-PLIS-uh-tee) Definition (Noun) Deceptiveness in speech or conduct; acting in two different ways to different people. Example His duplicity became clear when we realized he had told each side a different version of the story. Fun Fact “Duplicity” comes from the Latin duplex, meaning “double”—a fitting root for someone who presents two faces to the world. The word is often associated with spies, politicians, and backstabbers in history and literature, proving that trust is a valuable (and fragile) commodity.

Semaphore

Today's Word Semaphore SEM-uh-for Definition (Noun) A system of signaling using flags, lights, or hand movements. (Verb) To communicate using such signals. Example The sailors used semaphore to convey messages between ships without radios. Fun Fact Semaphore was widely used in maritime communication and railway signaling before modern technology. The famous Semaphore Flag Signaling System is still taught in some military and scouting organizations today—so next time your phone dies, maybe it’s time to brush up on your flag-waving skills!

Waylay

Today's Word Waylay WAY-lay Definition (verb) To stop, interrupt, or ambush someone unexpectedly. Example The journalist was waylaid by a crowd of eager fans before he could enter the conference. Fun Fact “Waylay” comes from an old term meaning “to lie in wait,” often referring to highway robbers. While it once had a dangerous connotation, today it’s used more playfully—think of a coworker waylaying you with last-minute questions before you leave for the weekend.

Fatuous

Today's Word Fatuous FACH-oo-uhs Definition (adjective) Silly, pointless, or lacking intelligence. Example His fatuous remarks during the meeting made it clear he hadn’t read the report. Fun Fact “Fatuous” comes from the Latin fatuus, meaning “foolish” or “stupid.” While often used in a lighthearted way to mock silly behavior, it has been a favorite of literary greats like George Orwell, who used it to describe empty political rhetoric.

Balk

Today's Word Balk BAWK Definition (verb) To hesitate, refuse, or stop suddenly before doing something, often due to reluctance or fear. Example She balked at the idea of skydiving, despite weeks of encouragement from her friends. Fun Fact “Balk” originally referred to an unplowed ridge of land in Old English. In baseball, a “balk” is an illegal move by the pitcher that stops play. Whether in sports or daily life, to balk is to hesitate—sometimes wisely, sometimes frustratingly!

Mores

Today's Word Mores MOR-ayz Definition (noun – plural) The accepted customs, values, or behaviors of a society or group. Example Changing social mores have influenced how people view work-life balance in the modern age. Fun Fact “Mores” comes from Latin, meaning “customs” or “ways.” While some mores are written into law, many exist as unspoken social norms—like shaking hands in greeting or tipping at restaurants. Over time, mores evolve, reflecting shifts in culture, technology, and societal expectations.

Hegemony

Today's Word Hegemony huh-JEM-uh-nee (or HEJ-uh-moh-nee) Definition (noun) Dominance or influence of one country, group, or ideology over others. Example The nation’s economic and cultural hegemony shaped global trends for decades. Fun Fact “Hegemony” comes from the Greek hegemon, meaning “leader.” The word is often used in political and cultural discussions to describe influence—whether in ancient empires, global superpowers, or even corporate industries. The next time you notice one brand or idea dominating the market, you’re witnessing hegemony in action!

Demagogue

Today's Word Demagogue DEM-uh-gawg Definition (noun) A leader who gains power by appealing to emotions, prejudices, or popular desires rather than reason or logic. Example The politician’s speeches, filled with fear-mongering and empty promises, revealed him as a demagogue. Fun Fact “Demagogue” comes from the Greek dēmagōgos, meaning “leader of the people.” While it once referred to positive leaders, the word now carries a negative connotation, describing figures who manipulate public emotions for personal gain. History is full of such figures, making “demagogue” a powerful term in political discourse.