- Today's Word
Ignominious
ig-nuh-MIN-ee-uhs
Definition
- (adjective) Deserving or causing public disgrace, shame, or humiliation.
Example
The team suffered an ignominious defeat after losing by a record-breaking margin.
Fun Fact
“Ignominious” comes from the Latin ignominia, which combines in- (“not”) and nomen (“name” or “reputation”), meaning “without a good name.” Throughout history, ignominious punishments—such as public shaming—were used to enforce social order. Today, the word is often used to describe humiliating losses, scandals, or embarrassing failures.
(adjective) Attractive or appealing in a sweet, innocent, or endearing way.
Her winsome smile put everyone at ease the moment she walked into the room.
From Old English wynn, meaning “joy” or “delight.”