- Today's Word
Vicissitude
vih-SIS-ih-tood (or vih-SIS-ih-tyood)
Definition
- (noun) A change or variation, often unexpected and typically one of life’s challenges or difficulties.
- The natural ups and downs or alternations of life.
Example
Despite the vicissitudes of her career, she remained resilient and adapted to every challenge with determination.
Fun Fact
“Vicissitude” originates from the Latin word vicissitudo, which stems from vicis, meaning “change” or “alternation.” The term was first used in English in the 16th century to describe the inevitable fluctuations of fortune and life’s unpredictable nature. Philosophers and writers have long explored the concept of vicissitudes, using it to illustrate the impermanence of human existence and the resilience required to navigate life’s ebb and flow.
(noun) A burden, duty, or responsibility—especially one that is difficult or unwelcome.
The onus of proving the theory fell on the scientists who proposed it.
From Latin onus, meaning “load” or “burden.”