RIH-buhld
(adjective) Referring to sexual matters in a coarse or humorous way.
The comedian’s ribald jokes made half the audience laugh—and the other half blush.
Fun Fact
“Ribald” has medieval roots where it referred to a lewd or vulgar person, often tied to jesters or bawdy entertainers. Today, it usually describes humor that’s raunchy but not malicious—think late-night standup or locker-room banter. It walks the line between clever and crude.
TAS-i-turn
(adjective) Reserved or uncommunicative in speech.
The taciturn detective revealed little, even under pressure.
Fun Fact
Taciturn comes from the Latin taciturnus, meaning “not talkative.” It often appears in literature to describe mysterious or stoic characters—think Clint Eastwood’s cowboy or Mr. Darcy from Pride and Prejudice. Unlike shy or introverted, taciturn implies intentional silence, not just social discomfort.
ahn-WEE
(noun) A feeling of weariness or dissatisfaction from lack of excitement.
Despite his wealth, ennui plagued him in retirement.
Fun Fact
Ennui gained literary popularity in the 19th century, especially among Romantic and existential writers like Baudelaire and Flaubert. Unlike boredom, which can be fleeting, ennui suggests a deeper, more existential discontent. It’s often tied to periods of great privilege or monotony—when all needs are met but meaning is still elusive.
GAIR-ish
(adjective) Obtrusively bright, showy, or overly vivid.
The garish outfit made everyone at the gala do a double take.
Fun Fact
Garish was first used in English in the 16th century, possibly related to the word gare, meaning “to stare.” It originally implied something so flashy it almost blinded or shocked the viewer. Today, it’s a go-to critique for outfits, interior design, or websites that overwhelm the senses with clashing colors and loud patterns.
vih-tree-AH-lik
(adjective) Filled with bitter criticism or malice.
Her vitriolic comments silenced the room.
Fun Fact
“Vitriolic” stems from the Latin word for sulfuric acid—once called “oil of vitriol.” Originally describing corrosive chemicals, the word evolved to describe words or tone that metaphorically burn.
KOR-pyuh-lens
(noun) The state of being excessively overweight.
Historical portraits often glorified corpulence as a sign of wealth.
Fun Fact
In past centuries, corpulence was associated with prosperity and high status—a far cry from today’s ideals. The word is still used in medical and formal writing, but now with more sensitivity.
POH-ten-tayt
(noun) A powerful ruler or monarch.
The potentate ruled the region for decades with unquestioned authority.
Fun Fact
The term “potentate” has a royal ring to it, but it can also be used ironically. You might hear it in reference to a micromanaging boss or a puffed-up HOA president.