Acrimony

Today's Word Acrimony AK-ruh-moh-nee Definition (noun) Bitterness or harshness in speech, behavior, or disposition. Example The acrimony between the former business partners was palpable at the hearing. Fun Fact “Acrimony” comes from the Latin acer, meaning “sharp.” It’s often used to describe cutting, hostile tone in arguments, especially when tension lingers. Acrimonious exchanges show up in political debates, divorce trials, or long-standing rivalries—where bitterness boils beneath the words.

Fecund

Today's Word Fecund FEE-kund / FEK-und Definition (adjective) Highly fertile or productive, especially in generating ideas or growth. Example The fecund artist produced hundreds of sketches before finishing a single piece. Fun Fact “Fecund” shares roots with “fecundus,” meaning fruitful or rich, and applies to both biological fertility and intellectual creativity. In agriculture, it refers to abundance; in literature and art, it’s the creative force behind prolific output and innovation. It’s not just busy—it’s bursting with generative potential.

Esoteric

Today's Word Esoteric ess-uh-TER-ik Definition (adjective) Understood or intended for only a small, specialized group with specific knowledge. Example The engineer’s esoteric explanation left the rest of the team bewildered. Fun Fact From Greek esōterikos (“inner”), “esoteric” once referred to secret teachings reserved for a select group. It now describes any knowledge that’s niche, technical, or inaccessible to outsiders—whether in philosophy, quantum physics, or 2000s video game lore.

Propitious

Today's Word Propitious pruh-PISH-uhs Definition (adjective) Indicating a good chance of success; favorable or auspicious. Example It was a propitious moment to invest, as market conditions were ideal. Fun Fact “Propitious” stems from Latin propitius, meaning “gracious” or “favorable.” In historical texts, it often signaled divine blessing or omens, and in modern usage, it suggests timing or conditions that tilt luck or outcomes in your favor—whether in business, diplomacy, or chance.

Yoke

Today's Word Yoke yohk Definition (noun/verb) To join, link, or bind together, especially in a burdensome or enforced way. Example They were yoked together by debt, unable to separate financially. Fun Fact Originally referring to a wooden device binding oxen, “yoke” symbolizes control, servitude, or inescapable attachment—physically or metaphorically. Religious texts reference “throwing off the yoke” of oppression, while literature often uses it to depict the weight of obligation or unwanted connection.

Sagacity

Today's Word Sagacity suh-GASS-ih-tee Definition (noun) Keen judgment and insight; profound wisdom and discernment. Example Her sagacity as a negotiator helped settle the dispute fairly and quickly. Fun Fact “Sagacity” shares a root with “sage” and comes from Latin sagax, meaning “perceptive.” It isn’t just intelligence—it’s wisdom backed by experience, often associated with leaders, philosophers, and strategists who see through complexity and act decisively. Sagacity implies clarity in chaos.

Rancor

Today's Word Rancor RANG-kur Definition (noun) Bitter resentment or deep-seated ill will, especially long-lasting. Example Years later, his rancor toward his former business partner hadn’t faded. Fun Fact Derived from Latin rancere, meaning “to stink,” the word “rancor” evokes something festering over time—resentment that rots rather than heals. Rancor is often irrational but enduring, and it drives some of the most powerful conflicts in history, politics, and literature—where characters are defined by grudges they refuse to let go.

Insular

Today's Word Insular IN-suh-lur Definition (adjective) Narrow-minded or isolated; lacking exposure to outside influences or ideas. Example His insular attitude made it difficult for him to accept new perspectives. Fun Fact “Insular” comes from the Latin insula, meaning “island,” and originally described geographic separation. Today, it applies more often to social or intellectual isolation—a kind of self-contained worldview that can be protective, but also limiting. It’s often used critically in cultural or political commentary to highlight resistance to diversity or innovation.

Oscillate

Today's Word Oscillate OSS-uh-layt Definition (verb) To move or swing back and forth in a steady rhythm; to waver between opposing positions or decisions. Example She oscillated between taking the job offer and going back to school. Fun Fact From Latin oscillare, “to swing,” the word was first used in reference to physical devices like pendulums and fans. Over time, it took on metaphorical meaning—describing emotional or intellectual back-and-forth. In psychology and politics alike, oscillation suggests indecision, ambivalence, or changing perspectives.

Cavort

Today's Word Cavort kuh-VORT Definition (verb) To jump or dance around excitedly; to behave in a lively or exuberant way. Example The children cavorted through the sprinklers, shrieking with joy. Fun Fact “Cavort” likely originated as a variation of “curvet,” a term used to describe a leaping movement by horses. It’s now used to convey carefree joy, frolicking, or exuberant celebration, often with a sense of unrestrained glee. Whether it’s kids playing, pets bounding around, or partygoers dancing freely, to cavort is to throw caution (and perhaps decorum) to the wind.