Morass
Today's Word Morass muh-RASS Definition (noun) A complicated or confusing situation; literally, a swamp. Example They found themselves in a legal morass with no clear way forward. Fun Fact Originally a term for a literal bog, “morass” now often describes bureaucratic, emotional, or political messes. It’s a favorite of journalists covering gridlocked governments or corporate chaos.
Indigent
Today's Word Indigent IN-dih-jent Definition (adjective) Lacking money or basic necessities; impoverished. Example The foundation provides aid to indigent families during the winter. Fun Fact “Indigent” shows up often in legal systems—like “indigent defense,” where courts provide attorneys to those who can’t afford one. The word is more formal than “poor,” often appearing in policy and grant language.
Disrepute
Today's Word Disrepute dis-rih-PYOOT Definition (noun) The state of having a bad reputation. Example The scandal threw the company into disrepute almost overnight. Fun Fact Disrepute is often used in legal, corporate, or academic contexts—anywhere reputation really matters. Unlike scandal or shame, disrepute doesn’t always result from wrongdoing; sometimes it’s a result of association or even rumor.
Credulity
Today's Word Credulity kruh-DOO-lih-tee Definition (noun) A tendency to believe things too easily or readily. Example Scammers often rely on the credulity of their victims to succeed. Fun Fact While “credulity” might sound like a compliment, it’s rarely used that way. It often appears in critiques of conspiracy theories or scams, highlighting the fine line between open-mindedness and gullibility.
Prosaic
Today's Word Prosaic pro-ZAY-ik Definition (adjective) Lacking poetic beauty; straightforward or dull. Example His prosaic description of the event missed the emotional impact entirely. Fun Fact From the same root as “prose,” prosaic was once a neutral word. Now, it’s often a subtle critique—used when something feels flat, unimaginative, or just plain practical. A prosaic solution might work, but it won’t inspire headlines.
Trenchant
Today's Word Trenchant TREN-chunt Definition (adjective) vigorous or incisive in expression or style. Example Her trenchant critique left the audience silent and reflective. Fun Fact “Trenchant” originally referred to literal cutting—like a sword’s edge. Today, it describes commentary or analysis that slices straight to the point. It’s often used in journalism and debate when someone’s words are especially clear, bold, and insightful.
Vacuous
Today's Word Vacuous VAK-yoo-us Definition (adjective) Lacking thought, intelligence, or meaning. Example The President’s speech was filled with vacuous slogans and lacked substance. Fun Fact Vacuous is closely related to the word “vacuum”—think of something hollow or devoid of content. It’s frequently used in media criticism to describe interviews, reality TV dialogue, or political statements that sound nice but say nothing.
Fastidious
Today's Word Fastidious fas-TID-ee-us Definition (adjective) Very attentive to detail; hard to please. Example He was fastidious about cleanliness and reorganized the desk every day. Fun Fact Fastidious once had a negative connotation, implying someone overly fussy or snobbish. Today, it’s often admired in chefs, designers, and editors who demand precision. It’s also a favorite word for describing perfectionists—both lovingly and critically.
Hapless
Today's Word Hapless HAP-liss Definition (adjective) Unfortunate or unlucky. Example The hapless tourist kept losing his belongings in every city he visited. Fun Fact Derived from the word “hap” meaning “luck” or “chance,” hapless appears frequently in novels, often to describe characters we’re meant to pity. Think of sitcom underdogs or tragic figures who just can’t catch a break.
Proscribe
Today's Word Proscribe proh-SCRIBE Definition (verb) To forbid or prohibit, especially by law. Example The regime proscribed public protests and unauthorized gatherings. Fun Fact “Proscribe” is often confused with “prescribe,” which means to recommend or authorize. Historically, to proscribe someone was to banish them or even sentence them to death—Julius Caesar and other Roman leaders famously used proscription lists to target political enemies.