MOD-ih-kuhm
Even a modicum of kindness can brighten someone’s day.
Fun Fact
“Modicum” originates from Latin, meaning “a small measure.” The word is often used sarcastically—if someone says, “He showed a modicum of patience,” they probably mean barely any. Even in law, a modicum of evidence can sometimes be enough to change the course of a trial.
FOH-ment
(verb) To instigate, stir up, or encourage (especially trouble or rebellion).
The speech was accused of fomenting unrest among the workers.
From Latin fovēre, meaning “to warm” or “soothe.”
Fun Fact
While foment sounds fiery, its roots are surprisingly gentle—it originally referred to warming or applying heat to soothe pain. By the 1600s, the word evolved metaphorically to mean “stirring up” passions or conflicts, much like heat can cause something to boil over. Today, it’s most often used in political or social contexts, describing the act of provoking movement or rebellion—the linguistic spark behind a blaze of action.
Today's Word Altruistic al-troo-IS-tik Definition (adjective) Showing unselfish concern for...
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