- 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) Existing only in theory or as an idea; not based on fact or reality; speculative or imaginary.
The architect’s notional plan for a self-sustaining city sounded brilliant in the boardroom, but engineers quickly pointed out it had no basis in practical reality.
Notional derives from the Latin notio, meaning “concept” or “idea,” itself from noscere, meaning “to know.” It entered English in the late 16th century, initially used in philosophical and logical contexts to describe things that exist purely as mental constructs rather than physical realities.