Today's Word

Winsome

WIN-sum

Definition

(adjective) Attractive or appealing in a sweet, innocent, or endearing way.

Example

Her winsome smile put everyone at ease the moment she walked into the room.

Word Origin

From Old English wynn, meaning “joy” or “delight.”

Fun Fact

What makes someone winsome isn’t glamour or sophistication—it’s warmth. Historically, the word described a gentle, genuine charm tied to childlike sincerity or kindness. In literature, winsome characters are the ones who brighten a scene simply by being in it, offering a kind of soft charisma that feels authentic rather than flashy.

Previous Words

Blandishment

Today's Word

Blandishment

BLAN-dish-ment

Definition

(noun) A flattering or coaxing remark meant to gently persuade someone to do something.

Example

No amount of blandishment from the salesman could convince her to buy the overpriced warranty.

Word Origin

Blandishment comes from the French blandir, meaning “to soften,” which itself traces back to the Latin blandus, meaning “smooth, flattering, or mild.” Over time it came to describe gentle persuasion—words that feel sweet on the surface but are often used with intention beneath.

Fun Fact

Psychologists studying persuasion have found that humans respond far more strongly to praise than to pressure. In sales, negotiations, and even everyday conversation, a well-placed compliment can lower resistance and shift decision-making. This behavioral tendency is part of what makes blandishments so effective—they feel harmless but can subtly shape choices without the person realizing it.

READ MORE...

Winsome

Definition

Example

Word Origin

Previous Words

Blandishment

Blandishment

Definition

Example

Word Origin

Blandishment

Sequester

Histrionic

Redress

Ascetic