- Today's Word
Cerebral
suh-REE-bruhl
Definition
(adjective) Intellectual or related to deep thinking and reasoning.
Example
Her writing was cerebral—layered, analytical, and not easily skimmed.
Fun Fact
Originally referring to the brain itself (cerebrum), cerebral evolved to describe intellectual depth, not just medical anatomy. Critics often label certain novels or films cerebral when they reward deep focus and thoughtful interpretation rather than emotional payoff. It’s a favorite descriptor for highbrow art, complex theories, or analytical thinkers.
(adjective) Characterized by soft, whispering, or rustling sounds.
The susurrous murmur of wind through the leaves made the forest feel alive yet utterly peaceful.
From Latin susurrare — “to whisper.”