pro-ZAY-ik
(adjective) Lacking poetic beauty; straightforward or dull.
His prosaic description of the event missed the emotional impact entirely.
Fun Fact
From the same root as “prose,” prosaic was once a neutral word. Now, it’s often a subtle critique—used when something feels flat, unimaginative, or just plain practical. A prosaic solution might work, but it won’t inspire headlines.
ig-nuh-MIN-ee-us
(adjective) Deserving or causing public shame, humiliation, or disgrace.
The team’s ignominious defeat became the talk of the league for weeks.
From Latin ignominia, meaning “disgrace” (in- “not” + nomen “name, reputation”).
Fun Fact
In older English, an ignominious punishment meant one designed to publicly shame the offender—branding, stocks, dunce caps, and other visible displays of dishonor. Today, the word is most often used metaphorically, describing humiliating losses, failures, or scandals. Its power comes from the social nature of shame: an ignominious moment sticks not because you remember it… but because everyone else does.
Today's Word Ignominious ig-nuh-MIN-ee-us Definition (adjective) Deserving or causing public...
Read MoreToday's Word Altruistic al-troo-IS-tik Definition (adjective) Showing unselfish concern for...
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