proh-SCRIBE
(verb) To forbid or prohibit, especially by law.
The regime proscribed public protests and unauthorized gatherings.
Fun Fact
“Proscribe” is often confused with “prescribe,” which means to recommend or authorize. Historically, to proscribe someone was to banish them or even sentence them to death—Julius Caesar and other Roman leaders famously used proscription lists to target political enemies.
rih-MYOO-nuh-rayt
(verb) To pay someone for services rendered or work done; to compensate.
The company remunerates its employees generously, offering both competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits.
Early 16th century: from Latin “remuneratus,” past participle of “remunerari,” from “re-” (expressing intensive force) + “munerari” meaning “to give,” from “munus” meaning “gift.”
Fun Fact
While “remunerate” and “pay” mean essentially the same thing, remunerate carries a tone of formality and fairness—suggesting proper compensation rather than just handing over money. The word implies that the payment matches the value of work performed. Interestingly, the Latin root “munus” (gift) also gives us “munificent” (generous) and “immunity” (originally a freedom from public service duties). So remuneration isn’t just payment—it’s etymologically linked to the concept of gifts and generous reciprocity, making it feel more dignified than a simple paycheck.
Today's Word Remunerate rih-MYOO-nuh-rayt Definition (verb) To pay someone for...
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