- Today's Word
Bellicose
BEL-ih-kohs
Definition
(adjective) Demonstrating aggression and a willingness to fight.
Example
The athlete’s bellicose attitude made him feared—and often penalized.
Fun Fact
From Latin bellum, meaning “war,” bellicose describes people who don’t just argue—they thrive on confrontation. It’s stronger than “aggressive,” and often shows up in political commentary, historical writing, or sports journalism. You’ll see it used when someone doesn’t just fight back—they lead with hostility, often as a strategy.
(adjective) Showy but cheap and of poor quality; lacking good taste.
The room was filled with tawdry decorations that looked like they came from a discount bin.
Mid 17th century: contraction of St. Audrey’s lace, which referred to cheap lace sold at fairs in honor of St. Audrey. Over time, the lace was seen as gaudy and tasteless, and St. Audrey became tawdry.