- Today's Word
Forbearance
for-BAIR-uhns
Definition
(noun) Patient self-control; restraint in the face of provocation.
Example
Her forbearance during the negotiation earned everyone’s respect.
Fun Fact
Forbearance gets a lot of attention in finance (as in mortgage forbearance) and spiritual philosophy. In Buddhism and Stoicism, it’s considered a sign of deep inner strength—not weakness. Think of it as choosing not to strike back, even when you’re capable of doing so, because the bigger goal is peace over pride.
(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.”