VAK-yoo-us
(adjective) Lacking thought, intelligence, or meaning.
The President’s speech was filled with vacuous slogans and lacked substance.
Fun Fact
Vacuous is closely related to the word “vacuum”—think of something hollow or devoid of content. It’s frequently used in media criticism to describe interviews, reality TV dialogue, or political statements that sound nice but say nothing.
soh-MAT-ik
(adjective) Relating to the body, especially as distinct from the mind.
The therapist emphasized somatic awareness, teaching clients to notice how emotions manifest physically.
From Greek sōma, meaning “body.”
Fun Fact
The word somatic bridges science and mindfulness. In medicine, it refers to the physical body—somatic cells are all cells except reproductive ones. In psychology, it’s used to describe practices that connect physical sensations with emotional states. Somatic therapy, for instance, helps people release trauma stored in the body through movement and awareness. It’s a reminder that the body and mind aren’t rivals—they’re teammates constantly communicating in ways we’re only beginning to understand.
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