DURTH
(noun) A lack or scarcity of something.
There was a dearth of medical supplies after the storm.
Fun Fact
“Dearth” originally meant “high price” in Middle English, referring to scarcity driving up value. Over time, it evolved to mean any shortage—of food, resources, opportunities, or ideas. It’s often used in economic, academic, or policy contexts to highlight the urgency created by what’s missing.
per-tuh-NAY-shus
(adjective) Holding firmly to an opinion, purpose, or course of action; extremely persistent.
Despite repeated setbacks, her pertinacious pursuit of the project impressed everyone on the team.
From Latin pertinax, meaning “very tenacious” or “holding fast.”
Fun Fact
Pertinacious is stronger than persistent—it suggests a stubborn, almost unshakeable grip on a goal or belief. Historically, the word was sometimes used critically, implying someone who refused to yield even when logic (or politeness) suggested they should. Today, it often carries admiration: pertinacious people are the ones who push breakthroughs, finish impossible tasks, and stay steady when others waver.
Today's Word Pertinacious per-tuh-NAY-shus Definition (adjective) Holding firmly to an...
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