ess-uh-TER-ik
(adjective) Understood or intended for only a small, specialized group with specific knowledge.
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.
FEE-kund / FEK-und
(adjective) Highly fertile or productive, especially in generating ideas or growth.
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.
ess-uh-TER-ik
(adjective) Understood or intended for only a small, specialized group with specific knowledge.
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.
pruh-PISH-uhs
(adjective) Indicating a good chance of success; favorable or auspicious.
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.
yohk
(noun/verb) To join, link, or bind together, especially in a burdensome or enforced way.
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.
suh-GASS-ih-tee
(noun) Keen judgment and insight; profound wisdom and discernment.
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.
RANG-kur
(noun) Bitter resentment or deep-seated ill will, especially long-lasting.
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.