Impute
Today's Word Impute im-PYOOT Definition (verb) To attribute an action, thought, or quality to someone, often falsely. Example The scandal was unfairly imputed to the assistant, who had no involvement. Fun Fact “Impute” is a favorite in legal and financial contexts, where responsibility or credit can be assigned—even without direct involvement. It’s often paired with “intent” in discussions of motive and accountability.
Demarcation
Today's Word Demarcation dee-mar-KAY-shun Definition (noun) The setting or marking of boundaries or limits; a clear distinction. Example The river served as a natural demarcation between the two properties. Fun Fact “Demarcation” is often used in both geography and workplace roles. Politically, demarcation lines have divided nations and empires. In management, clear demarcation of responsibilities can prevent conflict and promote efficiency.
Maxim
Today's Word Maxim MAK-sim Definition (noun) A short, pithy statement expressing a general truth or rule of conduct. Example He lived by the old maxim, “Honesty is the best policy.” Fun Fact Maxims have existed for thousands of years—from Confucian sayings to Latin proverbs to modern business mottos. A maxim is often passed down as cultural wisdom: brief, quotable, and powerful.
Calumny
Today's Word Calumny KAL-um-nee Definition (noun) A false and damaging statement meant to harm someone’s reputation. Example The candidate sued his rival for spreading calumny during the campaign. Fun Fact In ancient Rome, calumny was actually a punishable offense under the law. The word’s legal roots make it a favorite in political and journalistic commentary when false accusations fly.
Somnolent
Today's Word Somnolent SOM-nuh-lunt Definition (adjective) Sleepy or drowsy; inducing sleep. Example The somnolent atmosphere in the lecture hall was hard to resist. Fun Fact “Somnolent” doesn’t just describe people—music, lighting, or even a voice can be somnolent. It’s often used in travel writing and poetry to describe languid settings where time feels slow and eyes get heavy.
Acquiesce
Today's Word Acquiesce ak-wee-ESS Definition (verb) To accept something reluctantly but without protest. Example He acquiesced to the board’s decision, even though he disagreed. Fun Fact “Acquiesce” often appears in legal writing or formal agreements, describing passive consent. In pop culture, it shows up in scenes where characters silently give in—not out of agreement, but exhaustion, loyalty, or inevitability.
Expiate
Today's Word Expiate EK-spee-ayt Definition (verb) To atone for or make amends for wrongdoing. Example He volunteered at the shelter to expiate his earlier mistakes. Fun Fact “Expiate” often appears in religious or moral discussions, especially in literature. It’s a core theme in stories about redemption—whether a hero making things right or a villain seeking forgiveness. Think of Jean Valjean in Les Misérables.
Gourmand
Today's Word Gourmand GOOR-mahnd Definition (noun) A person who enjoys eating and often eats excessively. Example The festival attracted gourmands from around the world. Fun Fact While similar to “gourmet,” a gourmand is more about quantity than refinement. The word has French roots and once had a negative connotation—today it can imply either joyful indulgence or over-the-top appetite, depending on tone.
Protean
Today's Word Protean PROH-tee-un Definition (adjective) Able to change or adapt easily; versatile. Example His protean acting abilities allowed him to play both villain and hero convincingly. Fun Fact The word comes from Proteus, a Greek sea god who could change shape at will. In modern use, it’s often applied to creative talents, politicians, or technologies that constantly reinvent themselves.
Surfeit
Today's Word Surfeit SUR-fit Definition (noun) An excessive amount of something. Example After the holidays, I had a surfeit of sweets and no desire to eat another cookie. Fun Fact “Surfeit” was frequently used in 18th-century medical writing, when overindulgence in food and drink was thought to cause all kinds of imbalances. Today, the word is often used playfully to describe streaming queues, inboxes, or overbooked calendars.