Impinge

Today's Word Impinge im-PINJ Definition (verb) To intrude upon or negatively affect something or someone, often by limiting or interfering. Example The new law may impinge on individual freedoms if not carefully revised. Fun Fact From the Latin impingere (“to strike or press upon”), “impinge” originally had a physical meaning—like waves impinging on a cliff. Over time, it took on a more figurative meaning, referring to violations of boundaries—legal, personal, or ethical. Whether it’s noise impinging on concentration or rules impinging on freedom, the word always suggests an unwanted intrusion.

Abject

Today's Word Abject AB-jekt Definition (adjective) Extremely bad, degrading, or wretched; experienced or present to the maximum degree. Example They lived in abject poverty, with little food or shelter to get through the winter. Fun Fact “Abject” comes from the Latin abjicere, meaning “to throw away.” Originally referring to someone cast down or rejected, the term evolved to describe utter hopelessness or misery. It’s commonly used to emphasize emotional extremes—abject fear, abject failure, abject humiliation—highlighting situations where someone feels completely defeated or exposed.

Polemic

Today's Word Polemic puh-LEM-ik Definition (noun) A strong argument or attack against someone or something. Example His polemic against corporate greed went viral, igniting fierce debate. Fun Fact Many of history’s most famous thinkers—Voltaire, Karl Marx, and Susan B. Anthony—were polemicists who used sharp arguments to challenge the status quo. Whether in political speeches, controversial essays, or heated debates, polemics are meant to stir emotions and provoke change.

Intractable

Today's Word Intractable in-TRAK-tuh-buhl Definition (adjective) Difficult to manage, control, or solve; stubborn. Example The negotiations became intractable when neither side would compromise. Fun Fact Intractability has been studied in psychology and conflict resolution. From difficult personalities to historical conflicts that seem impossible to resolve, the key to dealing with intractable problems often lies in patience, diplomacy, and creativity. Even legendary figures like Winston Churchill were famously intractable, refusing to back down even in dire situations.

Modicum

Today's Word Modicum MOD-ih-kuhm Definition (noun) A small or moderate amount of something. Example Even a modicum of kindness can brighten someone’s day. Fun Fact “Modicum” originates from Latin, meaning “a small measure.” The word is often used sarcastically—if someone says, “He showed a modicum of patience,” they probably mean barely any. Even in law, a modicum of evidence can sometimes be enough to change the course of a trial.

Venerate

Today's Word Venerate VEN-uh-rayt Definition (verb) To deeply respect, admire, or hold in high regard. Example Generations of artists venerate Michelangelo as one of the greatest painters in history. Fun Fact Veneration is deeply embedded in many cultures and religions. In Buddhism, followers venerate the Buddha and sacred texts; in Christianity, saints are venerated for their faith and sacrifice. The practice extends beyond religion—national heroes, intellectual figures, and even objects (like the U.S. Constitution) can be venerated for their historical or moral significance..

Quotidian

Today's Word Quotidian kwoh-TID-ee-uhn Definition (adjective) Happening every day; ordinary or routine. Example Though quotidian, her morning coffee ritual brought her immense comfort. Fun Fact “Quotidian” comes from the Latin quotidianus, meaning “daily.” While it often describes mundane routines, many writers and philosophers celebrate the beauty of everyday life. The poet William Wordsworth found inspiration in quotidian moments, turning simple walks and ordinary people into powerful poetry. In psychology, mindfulness practices encourage people to appreciate the quotidian rather than overlook it.

Platitude

Today's Word Platitude PLAT-uh-tood Definition (noun) An overused remark or cliché that lacks originality. Example Tired of hearing the same old platitudes, she rolled her eyes at “Everything happens for a reason.” Fun Fact Platitudes are common in motivational speeches, political campaigns, and greeting cards. While they may offer temporary comfort, their overuse diminishes their impact. George Orwell criticized political platitudes in his essay Politics and the English Language, arguing that such empty phrases often mask real issues. Interestingly, many platitudes—such as “good things come to those who wait”—contradict each other, making them even less meaningful.

Congruity

Today's Word Congruity kuhn-GROO-uh-tee Definition (noun) A state of agreement, harmony, or logical consistency. Example There was an obvious congruity between his words and actions. Fun Fact Congruity is a crucial concept in mathematics, where it describes figures that match perfectly. But it extends far beyond geometry—literature, philosophy, and psychology all explore the idea that harmony and alignment create order and understanding. Aristotle’s theory of virtue ethics is based on congruity between beliefs and actions, emphasizing that a virtuous life requires consistency between what we say and what we do.

Noxious

Today's Word Noxious NOK-shuhs Definition (adjective) Harmful, poisonous, or dangerous to health. Example The noxious fumes from the factory forced the town to evacuate. Fun Fact “Noxious” comes from the Latin noxa, meaning “harm” or “injury.” Historically, it was used to describe deadly gases, polluted air, and poisonous plants. In literature, Shakespeare frequently referenced noxious substances, such as the poison that killed Hamlet’s father. Beyond physical dangers, the word has taken on a figurative meaning, applying to toxic relationships, manipulative people, and harmful ideologies—reminding us that not all poisons come in a bottle.