Boon
Today's Word Boon boon Definition (noun) A thing that is helpful or beneficial. Example The new community center was a boon to families in the neighborhood. Fun Fact Originally associated with blessings or requests in Old English and Norse mythology, a “boon” once referred to a favor granted by a king or god. Today, it’s still used to describe anything that feels like a fortunate benefit—whether it’s a job perk, a technological breakthrough, or a surprise day off.
Mawkish
Today's Word Mawkish MAW-kish Definition (adjective) Overly sentimental or emotional to the point of being unpleasant. Example The movie’s mawkish ending drew eye-rolls rather than tears. Fun Fact Mawkish originally referred to a nauseating or spoiled taste, stemming from the Middle English mauk, meaning “maggot.” Over time, the meaning shifted from physical disgust to emotional excess. Today, it’s used to describe songs, movies, or writing that lay on the sentiment so thick it turns people off.
Rectitude
Today's Word Rectitude REK-ti-tood Definition (noun) Morally correct behavior or thinking; righteousness. Example Her rectitude was admired even by her fiercest opponents. Fun Fact Rectitude is an old-school word that appears in documents like the U.S. Declaration of Independence, which refers to “a decent respect to the opinions of mankind” and “the rectitude of our intentions.” It comes from Latin rectus, meaning “straight” or “right,” and it’s often used to describe people with uncompromising principles.
Taciturn
Today's Word Taciturn TAS-i-turn Definition (adjective) Reserved or uncommunicative in speech. Example The taciturn detective revealed little, even under pressure. Fun Fact Taciturn comes from the Latin taciturnus, meaning “not talkative.” It often appears in literature to describe mysterious or stoic characters—think Clint Eastwood’s cowboy or Mr. Darcy from Pride and Prejudice. Unlike shy or introverted, taciturn implies intentional silence, not just social discomfort.
Ennui
Today's Word Ennui ahn-WEE Definition (noun) A feeling of weariness or dissatisfaction from lack of excitement. Example Despite his wealth, ennui plagued him in retirement. Fun Fact Ennui gained literary popularity in the 19th century, especially among Romantic and existential writers like Baudelaire and Flaubert. Unlike boredom, which can be fleeting, ennui suggests a deeper, more existential discontent. It’s often tied to periods of great privilege or monotony—when all needs are met but meaning is still elusive.
Garish
Today's Word Garish GAIR-ish Definition (adjective) Obtrusively bright, showy, or overly vivid. Example The garish outfit made everyone at the gala do a double take. Fun Fact Garish was first used in English in the 16th century, possibly related to the word gare, meaning “to stare.” It originally implied something so flashy it almost blinded or shocked the viewer. Today, it’s a go-to critique for outfits, interior design, or websites that overwhelm the senses with clashing colors and loud patterns.
Vitriolic
Today's Word Vitriolic vih-tree-AH-lik Definition (adjective) Filled with bitter criticism or malice. Example Her vitriolic comments silenced the room. Fun Fact “Vitriolic” stems from the Latin word for sulfuric acid—once called “oil of vitriol.” Originally describing corrosive chemicals, the word evolved to describe words or tone that metaphorically burn.
Corpulence
Today's Word Corpulence KOR-pyuh-lens Definition (noun) The state of being excessively overweight. Example Historical portraits often glorified corpulence as a sign of wealth. Fun Fact In past centuries, corpulence was associated with prosperity and high status—a far cry from today’s ideals. The word is still used in medical and formal writing, but now with more sensitivity.
Potentate
Today's Word Potentate POH-ten-tayt Definition (noun) A powerful ruler or monarch. Example The potentate ruled the region for decades with unquestioned authority. Fun Fact The term “potentate” has a royal ring to it, but it can also be used ironically. You might hear it in reference to a micromanaging boss or a puffed-up HOA president.
Impervious
Today's Word Impervious im-PUR-vee-us Definition (adjective) Not allowing something to pass through; unaffected by external influences. Example She remained impervious to criticism, focused entirely on her goal. Fun Fact Originally used to describe waterproof materials, “impervious” has become metaphorical over time. Now you might hear it in business meetings or therapy sessions to describe emotional resilience.