Pariah

puh-RY-uh

Definition

  1. (noun) A person who is rejected or ostracized by society or a particular group; an outcast.

Example

After exposing the company’s unethical practices, he became a pariah in the corporate world, shunned by colleagues who feared association with him.

Fun Fact

The word “pariah” comes from the Tamil word paraiyar, which referred to a hereditary group of drummers in southern India who were considered social outcasts under the caste system. The term entered English during British colonial rule in India and evolved into a metaphor for anyone who is marginalized or excluded. Interestingly, its adoption into English reflects the cultural intersections and linguistic exchanges of colonial history, highlighting how specific cultural practices can influence broader language usage.

Previous Words

Facetious

Today's Word Facetious fuh-SEE-shus Definition (adjective) Treating serious issues with...

Read More

Capricious

Today's Word Capricious kuh-PRISH-us Definition (adjective) Given to sudden and...

Read More

Sedulous

Today's Word Sedulous SEJ-uh-lus Definition (adjective) Showing dedication and diligence;...

Read More

Licentious

Today's Word Licentious ly-SEN-shus Definition (adjective) Promiscuous and unprincipled in...

Read More

Idolatrous

Today's Word Idolatrous eye-DAH-luh-trus Definition (adjective) Relating to or practicing...

Read More