- Today's Word
Supine
soo-PINE
Definition
- (adjective) Lying on one’s back, face upward.
- Failing to act or show resistance due to weakness or indifference.
Example
He lay supine on the grass, gazing at the stars and pondering the mysteries of the universe.
Fun Fact
“Supine” comes from the Latin word supinus, meaning “bent backward” or “reclining.” Its dual meaning reflects both physical posture and metaphorical inaction. In ancient Rome, the word often symbolized passivity, which later inspired its use in critiques of apathy or submissiveness. The distinction between “prone” (face down) and “supine” (face up) remains a common linguistic challenge today.
(adjective) Showy but cheap and of poor quality; lacking good taste.
The room was filled with tawdry decorations that looked like they came from a discount bin.
Mid 17th century: contraction of St. Audrey’s lace, which referred to cheap lace sold at fairs in honor of St. Audrey. Over time, the lace was seen as gaudy and tasteless, and St. Audrey became tawdry.