intentionality (noun)

• A Word to the Wise

  Vernissage

  March 16, 2022 · 1 min read

  – from the French for “varnishing” – is a term used for a preview or private showing of an art exhibition before the formal opening. The word has its roots in the old practice of setting aside a day for…

  Read full post
• A Word to the Wise

  insouciant (adjective)

  June 5, 2020 · 1 min read

  Insouciant (in-SOO-see-uhnt) describes a casual lack of concern; indifference. As I used it today: “There was something about the insouciant way in which [George Floyd] was killed… that made this killing…

  Read full post
• A Word to the Wise

  adulation (noun)

  September 28, 2020 · 1 min read

  Adulation (ad-juh-LAY-shun) is excessive admiration or praise. As I used it today: “On the one hand, I was thrilled that this person I adulated would condescend to confide in me. On the other hand, her…

  Read full post
• A Word to the Wise

  burgeon (verb)

  August 31, 2019 · 1 min read

  To burgeon (BUR-jun) is to flourish, to grow or develop quickly. As used by Ellis Peters: “Truth, like the burgeoning of a bulb under the soil, however deeply sown, will make its way to the light.”

  Read full post
• A Word to the Wise

  asseverate (verb)

  August 5, 2019 · 1 min read

  To asseverate (uh-SEH-ver-ate) is to declare or state solemnly or emphatically. As used in The Atlantic Monthly: “When one begins to asseverate his honesty, his hearers begin to question it.”

  Read full post

View all 354 articles in A Word to the Wise →