Despot

Today's Word Despot DES-puht (or DES-pot) Definition (noun) A ruler with absolute power, often one who exercises it in a cruel or oppressive manner. Example The despot ruled with an iron fist, silencing dissent and enforcing strict control over the populace. Fun Fact “Despot” comes from the Greek despotes, meaning “master” or “lord.” While initially neutral in tone, the word gained its negative connotation over centuries as it became associated with tyrannical leaders. Its use today highlights the importance of balancing power with fairness and justice.

Zenith

Today's Word Zenith ZEE-nith (or ZEH-nith) Definition (noun) The highest point or peak of success, power, or achievement. Example The athlete’s career reached its zenith when she won three Olympic gold medals in a single year. Fun Fact “Zenith” originates from Arabic samt ar-ras, meaning “path above the head,” referring to the highest point in the sky directly overhead. The word entered English via medieval astronomy and eventually expanded metaphorically to describe peak moments in life or success.

Vituperate

Today's Word Vituperate vy-TOO-puh-rayt (or vy-TYOO-puh-rayt) Definition (verb) To criticize or scold someone in a harsh, abusive manner. Example The coach began to vituperate the players after their lackluster performance in the championship game. Fun Fact “Vituperate” comes from the Latin vituperare, meaning “to blame” or “find fault with.” Though its use has declined in casual conversation, it remains a powerful word for describing sharp, biting criticism. It’s a testament to the richness of language for expressing disapproval in vivid terms.

Immutable

Today's Word Immutable ih-MYOO-tuh-buhl Definition (adjective) Unchanging over time or unable to be changed. Example The laws of physics are often regarded as immutable, governing the universe with unwavering consistency. Fun Fact “Immutable” comes from the Latin immutabilis, combining in- (“not”) and mutabilis (“changeable”). The word has been used to describe enduring principles, truths, or conditions. Its philosophical roots remind us of humanity’s quest to understand what is permanent in an ever-changing world.

Officious

Today's Word Officious uh-FISH-uhs Definition (adjective) Excessively eager to offer help or advice, often where it is not wanted; meddlesome. Example The officious receptionist constantly interrupted conversations to provide unsolicited opinions. Fun Fact “Officious” comes from the Latin officiosus, meaning “obliging” or “dutiful.” While its original sense was positive, the word’s modern meaning shifted toward unwanted or intrusive behavior. Its evolution mirrors how well-meaning actions can sometimes cross into annoyance.

Solipsistic

Today's Word Solipsistic so-lip-SIS-tik Definition (adjective) Excessively self-centered or focused on oneself, often to the exclusion of external realities. Example His solipsistic worldview made it difficult for him to empathize with others’ struggles. Fun Fact “Solipsistic” originates from the Latin solus (“alone”) and ipse (“self”), forming the philosophy of solipsism, which argues that only one’s mind is certain to exist. While the term often has a negative connotation today, it reflects a deeper philosophical question about the nature of reality and perception.

Multifarious

Today's Word Multifarious mul-tuh-FAIR-ee-uhs Definition (adjective) Having great variety or diversity; numerous and varied. Example The multifarious talents of the artist ranged from painting to composing music and designing sculptures. Fun Fact “Multifarious” stems from the Latin multifarius, meaning “having many parts.” It has been used in English since the 17th century to emphasize variety and richness. The term is often employed to highlight the complexity of ideas, cultures, or individual abilities.

Ebullient

Today's Word Ebullient ih-BUHL-yuhnt (or ih-BOOL-yuhnt) Definition (adjective) Overflowing with enthusiasm, energy, or excitement; exuberant. Example Her ebullient personality lit up every room she entered, making her the heart of every gathering. Fun Fact “Ebullient” comes from the Latin ebullire, meaning “to bubble out.” Originally used to describe boiling liquids, the word evolved to capture figurative “bubbling over” of emotions or excitement. It’s a vivid reminder of how language connects physical phenomena to human emotions.

Accretion

Today's Word Accretion uh-KREE-shuhn Definition (noun) The gradual accumulation or growth of layers, particles, or matter over time. Example The coastline expanded slowly due to the accretion of sand carried by the tides. Fun Fact “Accretion” comes from the Latin accretio, meaning “growth” or “increase.” The term is widely used in science, such as in astronomy, where it describes the process of material gathering around a celestial body. It also has metaphorical applications, often symbolizing the slow but steady buildup of ideas, habits, or relationships.

Viscous

Today's Word Viscous VIS-kuhs Definition (adjective) Having a thick, sticky consistency that resists flow; syrupy. Example The viscous honey clung to the spoon, dripping slowly into the jar. Fun Fact “Viscous” comes from the Latin word viscum, meaning “birdlime,” a sticky substance made from mistletoe berries used to trap birds. In physics, viscosity refers to a liquid’s resistance to flow, with honey and molasses being prime examples of high-viscosity substances. The word has also been metaphorically extended to describe sluggish or slow-moving processes.