- Today's Word
Wanton
WAHN-tuhn
Definition
(adjective) Excessive, deliberate, and unrestrained—especially in a cruel or reckless way.
Example
The villain’s wanton destruction of the town shocked even his most loyal followers.
Fun Fact
In Shakespearean times, “wanton” was often used to describe lustful or unchaste behavior, but over the centuries, it expanded to cover all kinds of reckless or unjustifiable actions—from violent destruction to excessive luxury. It remains a favorite in legal language for actions that cross ethical lines.
(verb) To bear fruit or become productive; to make fruitful or productive
Years of patient investment in the community finally began to fructify, with new businesses and gathering spaces opening across the neighborhood.
Fructify derives from the Latin fructificare — from fructus (“fruit”) + facere (“to make”). It entered English in the 14th century, used first in its literal agricultural sense before quickly extending to describe any endeavor that yields results after a period of cultivation and patience.