Today's Word

Privation

PRY-vay-shun

Definition

(noun) A state in which essential needs are lacking.

Example

The documentary highlighted the long-term effects of housing privation.

Fun Fact

Privation is not just about discomfort—it’s about necessity being stripped away. From privation of sleep to privation of food, shelter, or security, the word describes a foundational level of deprivation. It’s often used in humanitarian, economic, and historical contexts where the absence of basic needs leads to larger consequences.

Similar Words

Edify

Today's Word

Edify

ED-uh-fye

Definition

(verb) To instruct or improve someone morally or intellectually.

Example

The speaker hoped his words would edify the audience, not just entertain them.

Fun Fact

Edify comes from Latin aedificare, meaning “to build”—and that metaphor still holds. When you edify someone, you’re building them up with knowledge or insight. It’s often used in religious or philosophical contexts, but also applies to writing, art, or film that challenges us to think more deeply. A TED Talk can be informative—but the really good ones? They edify.

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