- Today's Word
Velleity
[vuh-LEE-i-tee]
Definition
- (noun) A wish, inclination, or slight desire for something, but one that is not strong enough to lead to action. It’s often used to describe a fleeting or half-hearted desire.
Example
Tom had a velleity to start exercising regularly, but he never quite managed to overcome his inertia and actually join a gym.
Fun Fact
The word “velleity” comes from the Latin “velle,” meaning “to wish” or “to will.” It entered the English language in the early 17th century. Interestingly, it’s related to the more common word “volition,” which refers to the act of making a conscious choice or decision. “Velleity” represents a much weaker form of desire than volition, capturing that feeling of wanting something but not enough to act on it. It’s a sophisticated word that precisely describes a common human experience, making it a favorite among writers and vocabulary enthusiasts.
(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.