Today's Popular Words
Admonish
- Today's Word
Admonish
ad-MAH-nish
Definition
(verb) To warn or reprimand someone firmly, often with the intention of correction.
Example
The teacher admonished the student for speaking out of turn, but her tone remained calm and constructive.
Fun Fact
In literature and film, characters who admonish others often serve as the story’s moral compass—think of Gandalf’s warnings in The Lord of the Rings or Atticus Finch’s guidance in To Kill a Mockingbird. These moments aren’t just disciplinary—they’re pivotal points of growth.
Colloquial
- Today's Word
Colloquial
kuh-LOH-kwee-uhl
Definition
(adjective) Used in everyday, informal speech rather than formal language.
Example
Her writing had a colloquial tone that made complex topics easy to understand.
Fun Fact
“Colloquial” comes from Latin colloquium—literally “conversation.” It’s how we speak off the cuff, full of contractions, slang, and casual phrasing. Colloquial language brings relatability and voice, especially in dialogue and branding. What’s proper in a textbook might sound stiff in a coffee shop.
Tenable
- Today's Word
Tenable
TEN-uh-buhl
Definition
(adjective) Able to be maintained or defended against attack or objection.
Example
Her position on the issue was no longer tenable after the new evidence came out.
Fun Fact
“Tenable” stems from Latin tenere, “to hold.” It’s often used in philosophy, politics, or debate, where arguments must be strong enough to “hold up.” A tenable claim isn’t just logical—it’s resilient under scrutiny. When a position becomes untenable, retreat is inevitable.
Palliate
- Today's Word
Palliate
PAL-ee-ayt
Definition
(verb) To reduce the severity of something without removing its cause; to ease or alleviate.
Example
Medication can palliate the symptoms, but it won’t cure the disease.
Fun Fact
“Palliate” comes from Latin palliare, “to cloak.” It refers to masking pain or consequences, especially in medicine or diplomacy. Palliative care focuses on comfort, not cure—a way to preserve dignity and reduce suffering when solutions are limited.
Latent
- Today's Word
Latent
LAY-tent
Definition
(adjective) Present but not visible or active; existing in potential.
Example
Her latent talent for design became clear when she joined the project.
Fun Fact
“Latent” comes from Latin latere, meaning “to lie hidden.” In biology, latent viruses remain dormant until activated, and in psychology, latent traits may influence behavior without being obvious. It’s the unseen force waiting to emerge—whether talent, energy, or emotion.
Implacable
- Today's Word
Implacable
im-PLAK-uh-buhl
Definition
(adjective) Unable to be appeased, calmed, or satisfied.
Example
Despite their apologies, she remained implacable in her anger.
Fun Fact
From Latin placare (“to calm or soothe”), “implacable” describes someone whose anger or opposition can’t be softened—often used for enemies, grief, or moral determination. In literature and politics, implacable forces resist persuasion or negotiation.
Top 12 Benefits of Learning New Words
Expanding your vocabulary can offer a wide range of benefits that contribute to personal, academic, and professional growth. Learn some of the advantages.
