- Today's Word
Viscous
VIS-kuhs
Definition
- (adjective) Having a thick, sticky consistency that resists flow; syrupy.
Example
The viscous honey clung to the spoon, dripping slowly into the jar.
Fun Fact
“Viscous” comes from the Latin word viscum, meaning “birdlime,” a sticky substance made from mistletoe berries used to trap birds. In physics, viscosity refers to a liquid’s resistance to flow, with honey and molasses being prime examples of high-viscosity substances. The word has also been metaphorically extended to describe sluggish or slow-moving processes.
(verb) To reprimand someone severely; to criticize harshly.
The editor castigated the writer for missing yet another deadline.
Early 17th century: from Latin castigare, from castus ‘pure’ + agere ‘to drive’.