- Today's Word
Felicitous
fuh-LISS-ih-tus
Definition
(adjective) Well-suited or appropriate for the occasion; pleasing in manner or style.
Example
Her speech was filled with felicitous phrases that brought laughter and applause.
Fun Fact
“Felicitous” shares a root with “felicity,” meaning happiness or bliss. It’s often used in writing and speeches to praise word choices that are especially fitting or graceful—perfectly timed compliments, witty turns of phrase, or the right joke at the right time.
(adjective) Severe or strict in manner or appearance; having no comforts or luxuries; pleasingly simple and unadorned.
The monastery’s austere design — bare stone walls, minimal furniture, and no decoration — was intentional, meant to keep the monks focused on contemplation rather than comfort.
Austere comes from the Greek austēros, meaning “harsh” or “rough to the taste,” originally used to describe the bitter, drying quality of unripe fruit. The word passed into Latin as austerus and then into Old French before arriving in English in the 14th century. Its early use referred to physical sensations before expanding to describe strict, unadorned behavior and environments.