SAY-lee-uhnt
(adjective) Most noticeable or important; standing out conspicuously.
The most salient point in her argument was supported by hard data.
Fun Fact
“Salient” comes from the Latin salire, “to leap”—and originally described things leaping to attention. In modern use, it identifies the most visible or prominent feature in a list, argument, or design. A salient trait grabs your focus, even when surrounded by noise.
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.
im-PUR-vee-us
(adjective) Not allowing something to pass through; unaffected by external influences.
She remained impervious to criticism, focused entirely on her goal.
Fun Fact
Originally used to describe waterproof materials, “impervious” has become metaphorical over time. Now you might hear it in business meetings or therapy sessions to describe emotional resilience.
AD-um-brayt
(verb) To foreshadow or suggest something partially or vaguely.
The novel adumbrates a political crisis that mirrors real-world tensions.
Fun Fact
From Latin “adumbratus,” meaning “to shadow or sketch out,” the term is common in literary and legal contexts. In Supreme Court opinions, justices may adumbrate future positions without making full arguments.
ree-DOW-tuh-bul
(adjective) Formidable and commanding respect, especially because of strength or ability.
She was a redoubtable opponent in the courtroom, known for her precision and intensity.
Fun Fact
Though it includes “doubt” in its spelling, “redoubtable” is no contradiction. It comes from Old French and Latin, meaning to be feared and respected. It’s often used to describe generals, debaters, or intellectuals who are almost intimidating in their brilliance.