- Today's Word
Vituperate
vy-TOO-puh-rayt (or vy-TYOO-puh-rayt)
Definition
- (verb) To criticize or scold someone in a harsh, abusive manner.
Example
The coach began to vituperate the players after their lackluster performance in the championship game.
Fun Fact
“Vituperate” comes from the Latin vituperare, meaning “to blame” or “find fault with.” Though its use has declined in casual conversation, it remains a powerful word for describing sharp, biting criticism. It’s a testament to the richness of language for expressing disapproval in vivid terms.
(adjective) Practicing severe self-discipline and avoiding all forms of indulgence, often for spiritual or philosophical reasons.
He adopted an ascetic lifestyle, giving up comforts and focusing on meditation, study, and simple living.
Ascetic comes from the Greek askētikos, meaning “practicing training or exercise,” originally used for athletes. Over time the term shifted toward spiritual discipline, describing people who trained their minds and bodies through restraint, simplicity, and renunciation of physical pleasures.