- Today's Word
Roundabout
[ROUND-uh-bout]
Definition
- (adjective) Something that is not direct or straightforward, often involving a circuitous route or method. As a noun, it can refer to a circular intersection where traffic moves in one direction around a central island.
Example
Instead of giving a simple yes or no, the politician gave a roundabout answer that left everyone more confused than before.
Fun Fact
The term “roundabout” has been in use since the 16th century, originally meaning “speaking or acting in a circuitous manner.” Its use to describe circular road junctions didn’t emerge until the early 20th century in Britain. Interestingly, while roundabouts are common in many parts of the world, they were relatively rare in the United States until recent decades. The word’s dual meaning as both a physical structure and a metaphor for indirect action makes it a versatile and colorful addition to the English language.
(verb) To criticize someone or something severely and publicly, often with harsh or scathing language.
The columnist excoriated the company’s leadership for ignoring repeated safety warnings.
Excoriate comes from the Latin excoriare, meaning “to strip off the skin,” from ex- (“off”) and corium (“hide” or “skin”). While the word originally described physical abrasion, its meaning shifted metaphorically over time to describe verbal attacks so harsh they feel skin-deep, leaving nothing protected.