- Rectitude
- Today's Word
Rectitude
REK-ti-tood
Definition
(noun) Morally correct behavior or thinking; righteousness.
Example
Her rectitude was admired even by her fiercest opponents.
Fun FactRectitude is an old-school word that appears in documents like the U.S. Declaration of Independence, which refers to “a decent respect to the opinions of mankind” and “the rectitude of our intentions.” It comes from Latin rectus, meaning “straight” or “right,” and it’s often used to describe people with uncompromising principles.
Today's Popular Words
Despondent
- Today's Word
Despondent
dih-SPON-dent
Definition
(adjective) In low spirits from loss of hope or confidence.
Example
After weeks of job rejections, he grew increasingly despondent.
Fun Fact
From Latin despondere (“to give up”), “despondent” reflects emotional surrender—more serious than mere sadness. It’s often used to describe periods of grief, depression, or deep discouragement. In literature, despondent characters often face turning points that test their resilience.
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.
Garish
- Today's Word
Garish
GAIR-ish
Definition
(adjective) Obtrusively bright, showy, or overly vivid.
Example
The garish outfit made everyone at the gala do a double take.
Fun Fact
Garish was first used in English in the 16th century, possibly related to the word gare, meaning “to stare.” It originally implied something so flashy it almost blinded or shocked the viewer. Today, it’s a go-to critique for outfits, interior design, or websites that overwhelm the senses with clashing colors and loud patterns.
Potentate
- Today's Word
Potentate
POH-ten-tayt
Definition
(noun) A powerful ruler or monarch.
Example
The potentate ruled the region for decades with unquestioned authority.
Fun Fact
The term “potentate” has a royal ring to it, but it can also be used ironically. You might hear it in reference to a micromanaging boss or a puffed-up HOA president.
Taciturn
- Today's Word
Taciturn
TAS-i-turn
Definition
(adjective) Reserved or uncommunicative in speech.
Example
The taciturn detective revealed little, even under pressure.
Fun Fact
Taciturn comes from the Latin taciturnus, meaning “not talkative.” It often appears in literature to describe mysterious or stoic characters—think Clint Eastwood’s cowboy or Mr. Darcy from Pride and Prejudice. Unlike shy or introverted, taciturn implies intentional silence, not just social discomfort.
Wanton
- Today's Word
Wanton
WAHN-tuhn
Definition
(adjective) Excessive, deliberate, and unrestrained—especially in a cruel or reckless way.
Example
The villain’s wanton destruction of the town shocked even his most loyal followers.
Fun Fact
In Shakespearean times, “wanton” was often used to describe lustful or unchaste behavior, but over the centuries, it expanded to cover all kinds of reckless or unjustifiable actions—from violent destruction to excessive luxury. It remains a favorite in legal language for actions that cross ethical lines.
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.
