Waylay
Today's Word Waylay WAY-lay Definition (verb) To stop, interrupt, or ambush someone unexpectedly. Example The journalist was waylaid by a crowd of eager fans before he could enter the conference. Fun Fact “Waylay” comes from an old term meaning “to lie in wait,” often referring to highway robbers. While it once had a dangerous connotation, today it’s used more playfully—think of a coworker waylaying you with last-minute questions before you leave for the weekend.
Fatuous
Today's Word Fatuous FACH-oo-uhs Definition (adjective) Silly, pointless, or lacking intelligence. Example His fatuous remarks during the meeting made it clear he hadn’t read the report. Fun Fact “Fatuous” comes from the Latin fatuus, meaning “foolish” or “stupid.” While often used in a lighthearted way to mock silly behavior, it has been a favorite of literary greats like George Orwell, who used it to describe empty political rhetoric.
Balk
Today's Word Balk BAWK Definition (verb) To hesitate, refuse, or stop suddenly before doing something, often due to reluctance or fear. Example She balked at the idea of skydiving, despite weeks of encouragement from her friends. Fun Fact “Balk” originally referred to an unplowed ridge of land in Old English. In baseball, a “balk” is an illegal move by the pitcher that stops play. Whether in sports or daily life, to balk is to hesitate—sometimes wisely, sometimes frustratingly!
Mores
Today's Word Mores MOR-ayz Definition (noun – plural) The accepted customs, values, or behaviors of a society or group. Example Changing social mores have influenced how people view work-life balance in the modern age. Fun Fact “Mores” comes from Latin, meaning “customs” or “ways.” While some mores are written into law, many exist as unspoken social norms—like shaking hands in greeting or tipping at restaurants. Over time, mores evolve, reflecting shifts in culture, technology, and societal expectations.
Hegemony
Today's Word Hegemony huh-JEM-uh-nee (or HEJ-uh-moh-nee) Definition (noun) Dominance or influence of one country, group, or ideology over others. Example The nation’s economic and cultural hegemony shaped global trends for decades. Fun Fact “Hegemony” comes from the Greek hegemon, meaning “leader.” The word is often used in political and cultural discussions to describe influence—whether in ancient empires, global superpowers, or even corporate industries. The next time you notice one brand or idea dominating the market, you’re witnessing hegemony in action!
Demagogue
Today's Word Demagogue DEM-uh-gawg Definition (noun) A leader who gains power by appealing to emotions, prejudices, or popular desires rather than reason or logic. Example The politician’s speeches, filled with fear-mongering and empty promises, revealed him as a demagogue. Fun Fact “Demagogue” comes from the Greek dēmagōgos, meaning “leader of the people.” While it once referred to positive leaders, the word now carries a negative connotation, describing figures who manipulate public emotions for personal gain. History is full of such figures, making “demagogue” a powerful term in political discourse.
Acerbic
Today's Word Acerbic uh-SUR-bik Definition (adjective) Harsh, sharp, or biting in tone, manner, or taste. Example His acerbic wit made him popular among his friends but often got him into trouble. Fun Fact “Acerbic” comes from the Latin acerbus, meaning “bitter” or “sour,” originally referring to taste. Over time, the word took on a figurative meaning, describing sharp or cutting remarks. Many famous figures—like Dorothy Parker and Oscar Wilde—were known for their acerbic humor, delivering witty but often biting commentary.
Quandary
Today's Word Quandary KWAHN-duh-ree Definition (noun) A state of uncertainty, confusion, or doubt, often involving a difficult decision. Example She found herself in a quandary when she received two amazing job offers and couldn’t decide which to take. Fun Fact The origin of “quandary” is unclear, but it has been used since the 16th century to describe dilemmas that leave people unsure of what to do. Whether choosing between two tempting desserts or deciding on a life-changing move, we all experience quandaries—big and small—every day!
Paucity
Today's Word Paucity PAW-suh-tee Definition (noun) A scarcity or lack of something. Example The paucity of affordable housing in the city has become a growing concern for residents. Fun Fact “Paucity” comes from the Latin paucus, meaning “few.” It’s often used in discussions of resources, such as food shortages, a lack of evidence, or even a paucity of ideas. A fun twist? While the word describes a shortage, the English language is anything but lacking in colorful vocabulary!
Obdurate
Today's Word Obdurate OB-duh-rut Definition (adjective) Stubbornly refusing to change one’s opinion or course of action; unyielding. Example Despite overwhelming evidence, he remained obdurate in his refusal to admit wrongdoing. Fun Fact “Obdurate” comes from the Latin obdurare, meaning “to harden.” The word was originally used in religious texts to describe those who resisted divine influence. Today, it describes anyone who refuses to budge—whether a defiant toddler, a determined activist, or an unyielding negotiator.