Metanoia

Metanoia

Metanoia


met-uh-NOY-uh

Definition

(noun) A profound transformation or change of mindset; a spiritual or psychological conversion.

Example

Traveling alone for a year sparked a deep metanoia, reshaping her priorities and sense of purpose.

Word Origin

From Greek meta- (“beyond” or “after”) + noia (“mind”), meaning “a shift of mind.”

Fun Fact

In ancient Greek philosophy, metanoia described a dramatic inner turning—a complete reorientation of how one sees the world. Today, psychologists associate the idea with breakthrough moments: sudden clarity after confusion, healing after loss, or the realization that your life must move in a new direction. Many cultures describe similar concepts—from epiphanies to spiritual awakenings—reflecting humanity’s timeless desire to grow beyond who we once were.

Previous Words

Polemical

Today's Word Polemical puh-LEM-ih-kul Definition (adjective) Relating to or involving...

Read More

Gadfly

Today's Word Gadfly GAD-fly Definition (noun) A person who persistently...

Read More

Atavism

Today's Word Atavism AT-uh-viz-um Definition (noun) The reappearance of a...

Read More

Dulcet

Today's Word Dulcet DUL-sit Definition (adjective) Sweet and soothing to...

Read More

Waylay

Today's Word Waylay WAY-lay Definition (verb) To stop or intercept...

Read More