Today's Word

Rhapsodize

RAP-suh-dyze

Definition

(verb) To speak or write about something with great enthusiasm or delight.

Example

She couldn’t help but rhapsodize about the breathtaking views she experienced during her trip to the Alps.

Fun Fact

“Rhapsodize” is derived from rhapsodia, a term in ancient Greek for a recited epic poem. Rhapsodists, often traveling performers, would deliver passionate renditions of Homeric epics. Over time, the term evolved to describe anyone expressing intense enthusiasm or delight, maintaining its roots in the idea of lyrical or poetic expression.

Previous Words

Accord

Today's Word

Accord

uh-KORD

Definition

(noun/verb) A formal agreement or harmony between parties; or, to give or grant something as appropriate.

Example

After months of negotiation, the two nations signed an accord that neither side had believed possible.

Word Origin

From Old French acorder, derived from Medieval Latin accordare — ad- (“to”) + cor/cordis (“heart”). An accord, etymologically, is a meeting of hearts. The same Latin root cor gives us “cordial,” “courage,” and “concord” — all words involving the heart as the seat of agreement, warmth, and bravery.

Fun Fact

Music theory borrowed “accord” directly — in French and several other languages, the word for a musical chord is “accord,” because a chord is literally multiple notes coming into agreement. This isn’t a coincidence: the metaphor of harmony runs through the word at every level. Political accords, personal reconciliation, and musical chords are all describing the same thing — separate elements resolving into something unified. The Paris Peace Accords, the Oslo Accords, and the Kyoto Protocol are among the most significant accords in modern history, each representing that rare moment when discord becomes harmony.

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Rhapsodize

Definition

Example

Previous Words

Accord

Accord

Definition

Example

Word Origin

Accord

Tantamount

Knotty

Harbinger

Machination