It rolls off the tongue really nicely and reminds me of snowmen gone awry.
absolution (ab-sah-LOO-shen) — 1. the act of absolving or the state of being absolved. 2. the formal remission of sin imparted by a priest, as in the sacrament of penance
It has enough syllables to sound powerful and weighty while representing the sort of enlightened benevolence and hope of forgiveness.
abyssopelagic (ah-BIS-so-pah-lah-jik) — of, like or pertaining to the depths of the ocean
It refers to the bottom of the ocean — how great is that? The sinister "abysso" recalls Tartarus, and overall conjures a gorgeous image of blind prognathous fish constellating the dark with the aching lambency of their bioluminescence.
acquiesce (ak-wee-ES) — to consent or comply passively or without protest.
It's as beautiful as snow, or a child's curiosity.
adumbrate (AD-um-brat) — 1. to give a sketchy outline of. 2. to prefigure indistinctly; foreshadow. 3. to disclose partially or guardedly. 4. to overshadow; shadow or obscure
aesthetic (es-THET-ik) — 1. relating to the philosophy or theories of aesthetics. 2. of or concerning the appreciation of beauty or good taste. 3. characterized by a heightened sensitivity to beauty
affinity (ah-FIN-i-tee) — 1. a natural attraction, liking, or feeling of kinship. 2. relationship by marriage. 3. an inherent similarity between persons or things. 4. a relationship or resemblance in structure between species that suggests a common origin. 5. the attraction between an antigen and an antibody. 6. an attraction or force between particles that causes them to combine.
I think this word is graceful and is perfect for substituting words such as "like" and "attracted to."
It's crisp, lively, and fun to say. As with many of the best words, it sounds like its definition.
alexithymia (ah-lek-sah-THI-mee-ah) — inability to describe emotions in a verbal manner
This word is defined as an inability to verbally express or describe an emotion. It's beautiful to the ear and perfect for when you're feeling tongue tied.
amalgamate (ah-MAL-gah-mate) — 1. to combine into a unified or integrated whole; unite. 2. to mix or alloy (a metal) with mercury.
A perfect way to describe blend, merge, or mix, especially metallurgy.
anacoluthon (an-ah-kah-LOO-thon) — An abrupt change within a sentence to a second construction inconsistent with the first, sometimes used for rhetorical effect; for example, I warned him that if he continues to drink, what will become of him?
That a single word describes such a slippery concept is a delight.
anemone (ah-NEM-ah-nee) — 1. any of various perennial herbs of the genus Anemone, native chiefly to northern temperate regions and having palmately lobed leaves and large flowers with showy sepals. Also called windflower. 2. a sea anemone.
This word just sounds beautiful and is wonderful to say.
animadversion (an-ah-mad-VUR-zhen) — strong criticism; a critical or censorious remark
annihilate (ah-NI-ah-late) — 1. to destroy completely; to reduce to nonexistence; to defeat decisively; vanquish. 2. to nullify or render void; abolish.
This word renders all other synonyms moot. Imagine to be destroyed, by nothing more than a word, from a friend or an enemy, betrayed by someone you love. It is utter, and nothing is more poignant.
antilogy (an-TIL-oh-jee) — 1. a contradiction in ideas, statements, or terms. 2. a contradiction between any words or passages in an author
apollonian (ap-ah-LO-nee-an) — characterized by clarity, harmony, and restraint; serene, calm
apotropaic (ap-ah-troh-PAY-ik) — intended to ward off evil
appersonation (ap-PER-so-nay-shen) — the delusion that one is a famous person
apposite (AP-ah-zit) — strikingly appropriate and relevant
Beautiful to say, and self-descriptive.
archipelago (ar-kah-PEL-ah-go) — 1. a large group of islands. 2. a sea, such as the Aegean, containing a large number of scattered islands
The pronunciation has a whimsical tone to it that makes me love saying it.
armamentarium (ar-mah-men-TAR-ee-um) — 1. the complete equipment of a physician or medical institution, including books, supplies, and instruments. 2. the complete range of materials available or used for a task
assuage (ah-SWAJ) — 1. to make (something burdensome or painful) less intense or severe. 2. to satisfy or appease (hunger or thirst, for example). 3. to pacify or calm
It sounds so cool...., and how it's spelt looks awesome for how it sounds. just everything about it and its meaning. also "epiphany" is one of the best words as well so good you have it :)
A mean word that means as it sounds, and a fluid pronunciation in keeping with its etymology: black bile.
auric (OR-ik) — of, relating to, derived from, or containing gold
autodidact (aw-toh-DI-dakt) — a self-taught person.
Being a largely self-taught person on most things, I like the word, because it describes the kind of person who wants to learn and understand. It is not commonly used, but it will be a joy to find by autodidactic persons who are perusing your website in search of new words. I love your website!
avalanche (AV-ah-lanch) — 1. a fall or slide of a large mass, as of snow or rock, down a mountainside. 2. a massive or overwhelming amount; a flood
The avalanche is powerful, destructive, yet majestic and beautiful. The word avalanche has all these qualities, because it paints the picture in the head at first hearing.
avuncular (ah-VUNG-kyah-ler) — 1. of or having to do with an uncle. 2. regarded as characteristic of an uncle, especially in benevolence or tolerance
It's an adjective that describes someone who has characteristic of an uncle, especially in benevolence or tolerance. It has a great, warm sound that helps carry the meaning.
axiology (ak-see-OL-ah-jee) — the study of the nature of values and value judgments.
azure (AZH-er) — 1. a light purplish blue. 2. the color blue. 3. the blue sky
bailiwick (BAY-li-wik) — one's particular area of activity, interest, or authority
balustrade (BAL-ah-strad) — A rail and the row of balusters or posts that support it, as along the front of a gallery
banausic (bah-NO-sik) — merely mechanical; routine. 2. of or relating to a mechanic
bauble (BAU-ble) — 1. a showy, usually cheap, ornament; trinket; gewgaw. 2. a jester's scepter
I just like the way it rolls off your tongue and isn't spelled "bobble." It's just...cute.
bereft (bi-REFT) — 1. deprived of something; lacking something needed or expected. 2. suffering the death of a loved one; bereaved.
I think it means that feeling of being so empty, you'll never be full again...;-)
betwixt (bi-TWIKST) — between.
I love the juxtapose of old and new langages, its medieval charm feels like your casting a spell mid sentence. It never fails to make me smile.
bilious (BIL-yes) — 1. of, relating to, or containing bile. 2. characterized by an excess secretion of bile; of or relating to gastric distress caused by a disorder of the liver or gallbladder; sickly. 3. resembling bile, esp. in color. 4. having a peevish disposition; bad-tempered
boeotian (be-OH-shen) — stupid; dull
borborygmus (bor-bah-RIG-mes) — a rumbling noise produced by the movement of gas through the intestines
botryoidal (BOT-ree-oid-el) — shaped like a bunch of grapes
Great word, that most do not know how to properly pronounce, it's fun though.
brouhaha (BROO-ha-ha) — an uproar; a hubbub
bumbledom (BUM-bel-dom) — 1. official pomposity and stupidity. 2. the dominion of an overbearing parish officer, the arrogance of parish authorities, the conceit of parish dignity
More than any other word I can think of off the top of my head, bumbledom sounds exactly like what it means. I also enjoy the fact that it is derogatory, albeit playfully, towards bureaucrats exclusively.
bungalow (BUNG-ah-low) — 1. A small house or cottage usually having a single story and sometimes an additional attic story. 2. a thatched or tiled one-story house in India surrounded by a wide verandah
Just say it slowly with the emphasis on the first syllable; if you don't giggle a little I don't know what to say.
cachinnation (kak-ah-NA-shen) — a loud, hard, convulsive laugh; a guffaw
cacology (kah-KOL-ah-je) — bad choice or use of words
cacophony (kah-KOF-ah-nee) — 1. jarring, discordant sound; dissonance. 2. the use of harsh or discordant sounds in literary composition
callipygian (kal-ah-PIJ-ee-en) — having beautifully proportioned buttocks
catachresis (kat-ah-KRE-sis) — the incorrect use of a word or phrase
caterwaul (KAT-er-wol) — 1. to utter long wailing cries, as cats in rutting time. 2. to utter a similar sound; howl or screech. 3. to quarrel like cats
I love the sound of the word, as well as the emotional connotations ... it's haunting.
caustic (KOS-tik) — 1. capable of burning, corroding, dissolving, or eating away by chemical action. 2. corrosive and bitingly trenchant; cutting. 3. causing a burning or stinging sensation, as from intense emotion
I love the way this word sounds bitter and acidic just like its meaning.
cherish (CHER-ish) — 1. to treat with affection and tenderness; hold dear. 2. to keep fondly in mind; entertain.
What a beautiful word, to hold one dear.
chimera (ki-MIR-ah) — 1. an organism, organ, or part consisting of two or more tissues of different genetic composition, produced as a result of organ transplant, grafting, or genetic engineering; a substance, such as an antibody, created from the proteins or genes or two different species. 2. an individual who has received a transplant of genetically and immunologically different tissue. 3. a fanciful mental illusion or fabrication. 4. monstrous creature of Lycia in Asia Minor, which was made of the parts of multiple animals
An interesting word and sounds far better than nightmare etc. I also like the words legerdemain and otiose. The latter can be used to describe many people on this over crowded planet of ours
chthonic (THON-ik) — of or relating to the underworld
chuckle (CHUK-el) — 1. to laugh quietly or to oneself. 2. to cluck or chuck, as a hen
cicatrix (SIK-ah-triks) — a scar left by the formation of new connective tissue over a healing sore or wound
I love the sibilance of its sound ... its elegant yet fun.
circa (SUR-kah) — in approximately; about.
I like the word "circa," but it is misused more often than it is used properly. It is properly used concerning dates, but is popularly used as a synonym for "approximately."
clandestine (klan-DESD-tine) — done in secret; needing to be concealed.
I am absolutely in love with this word, it simply has everything! It offers a quite elegant glow and has a very proper appearance. Clandestine may be pronounced slightly different than what a standard reader could expect. To be honest the word, as if in itself, has been a "clandestine" to me.
clatterfart (KLAT-er-fart) — a chatterer; babbler
clishmaclaver (KLISH-mah-klay-ver) — casual chat or gossip
It sounds so much more interesting than "gossip" or "idle talk."
coccyx (KOK-siks) — a small triangular bone at the base of the spinal column in humans and tailless apes, consisting of several fused rudimentary vertebrae; tailbone
cockalorum (kok-ah-LOR-em) — 1. a little man with an unduly high opinion of himself. 2. boastful talk; braggadocio
conglomerate (kon-GLOM-ah-rat) — 1. a corporation made up of a number of different companies that operate in diversified fields. 2. a collected heterogeneous mass; a cluster. 3. a rock consisting of pebbles and gravel embedded in cement
I love it. It has a thick feel to the mouth.
connoisseur (kon-ah-SUR) — 1. a person with expert knowledge or training, especially in the fine arts. 2. a person of informed and discriminating taste.
It doesn't sound like what it means. .. It's cute!
consort (KON-sort) — 1. a husband or wife, esp. of a monarch. 2. a companion or partner. 3. a ship accompanying another in travel. 4. partnership; association. 5. a group; a company. 6. an instrumental ensemble
contumely (KON-too-mah-lee) — rudeness or contempt arising from haughtiness; insolence
conundrum (kah-NUN-drum) — 1. a riddle in which a fanciful question is answered by a pun. 2. a paradoxical, insoluble, or difficult problem; a dilemma
There's something about the sound of the word, and the simple meaning of an unsolvable riddle.
coprolalia (kop-rah-LA-lee-ah) — 1. the uncontrolled, often obsessive use of obscene or scatological language that may accompany certain mental disorders. 2. foul speech
coprolite (KOP-rah-lite) — fossilized excrement
cornucopia (kor-nah-KO-pee-ah) — 1. a goat's horn overflowing with fruit, flowers, and grain, signifying prosperity. 2. the horn of the goat that suckled Zeus, which broke off and became filled with fruit. In folklore, it became full of whatever its owner desired. 3. a cone-shaped ornament or receptacle. 4. an overflowing store; an abundance
corpulent (KOR-pyah-lent) — excessively fat
couth (kooth) refinement; sophistication
Feels regal when used correctly.
crepuscule (kri-PUS-kyool) — twilight; dusk
cuckold (KUK-old) — a man married to an unfaithful wife.
curl (KERL) — 1. something with a spiral or coiled shape. 2. a coil or ringlet of hair. 3. a treatment in which the hair is curled. 4. the act of curling; the state of being curled. 5. a weightlifting exercise using one or two hands, in which a weight held at the thigh or to the side of the body is raised to the chest or shoulder and then lowered without moving the upper arms, shoulders, or back. 6. any of various plant diseases in which the leaves roll up
It's as if the tongue fondly cradles this word and lets it roll over slowly. I am not surprised that Michael Ondaatje extolled it (calling it "such a slow word") in The English Patient. It's also vivid; it ladles out a feeling of well-being, comfort, and satiety.
curple (KER-pul) — buttocks; rump
cusp (KUSP) 1. a point or pointed end. 2. a pointed or rounded projection on the chewing surface of a tooth; a triangular fold or flap of a heart valve. 3. a point at which a curve crosses itself and at which the two tangents to the curve coincide. 4. the point of intersection of two ornamental arcs or curves, such as the inner points of a trefoil. 5. either point of a crescent moon. 6. a transitional point or time, as between two astrological signs.
dearth (DURTH) — 1. a scarce supply; an inadequate amount. 2. a shortage of food; a famine.
It's a classy-sounding word for something quite commonplace. See the strange looks you get when you announce that there is a dearth of beer, and the shock once everyone finds out what you mean! It has such a lovely round sound to it, too.
debacle (di-BAH-kel) — 1. a sudden, disastrous collapse, downfall, or defeat; a rout. 2. a total, often ludicrous failure. 3. the breaking up of ice in a river. 4. a violent flood.
I love this word! I love the way it feels on my mouth when i say it. I also love that its clear its meaning is a bad thing. it just sounds so right!
decadence (DEK-ah-dence) — 1. a process, condition, or period of deterioration or decline, as in morals or art; decay. 2. a literary movement especially of late 19th-century France and England characterized by refined aestheticism, artifice, and the quest for new sensations
The strength of this word is incredible as are the images it has the potential to conjur!
defenestrate (dee-FEN-i-strate) — to throw out of a window
defile (di-FILE) — 1. to make filthy or dirty; pollute. 2. to debase the pureness or excellence of; corrupt. 3. to profane or sully (a reputation, for example). 4. to make unclean or unfit for ceremonial use; desecrate. 5. to violate the chastity of
delicatessen (del-i-kah-TES-en) — 1. a shop that sells cooked or prepared foods ready for serving; 2. ready-to-serve foods such as cheeses, cold cooked meats, and salads
denouement (DAY-noo-man) — 1. the final resolution or clarification of a dramatic or narrative plot; the events following the climax of a drama or novel in which such a resolution or clarification takes place. 2. the outcome of a sequence of events; the end result
I remember first hearing this word in ninth grade. It seemed like such a lovely word to sum up what was a lovely story.
diaphonous (DI-af-ah-nes) — 1. of such fine texture as to be transparent or translucent. 2. characterized by delicacy of form. 3. vague or insubstantial.
Pretty and evocative; the texture of light above running water, or something.
dicephalous (di-SEF-ah-les) — having two heads
discombobulate (dis-kom-BOB-yah-late) — to confuse or disconcert; upset; frustrate
disingenuous (dis-in-JEN-yoo-es) — 1. not straightforward or candid; insincere or calculating. 2. pretending to be unaware or unsophisticated; faux-naïf.
A great word to describe deceit. It implies one is not as ingenuous or innocent as might first appear. Interesting that it can be confused with the word "ingenious" which means inventive. One can imagine a disingenuous person being quite clever and inventive.
dollop (DOL-op) — a shapeless mass or blob of something
doryphore (DOR-ee-phor) — one who draws attention to the minor errors made by others, esp. in a pestering manner; a pedantic gadfly
It fits a real need — and the etymology is delightful as well. From the OED: 1952 H. NICOLSON in Spectator 22 Aug. 238/1 Often have I tried to supplement my vocabulary by inventing words, such as 'couth', or 'doriphore', or 'hypoulic', feeling that it is the duty as well as the pastime of a professional writer to make two words bloom where only one bloomed before. in Ibid. 17 Oct. 500/1 The doriphore..is the type of questing prig, who derives intense satisfaction from pointing out the errors of others. 1960 Age of Reason xii. 223 Boileau was so hurt by this reproof on the part of a female doryphore that he never set foot in Reuilly again. 1960 Daily Tel. 9 Dec. 19/3 The idiomatic implications of such a word as doryphore in his [sc. Sir Harold Nicolson's] own text is left for the ignorant to guess. (It means a Colorado beetle and, hence, a pest.) 1970 Times Lit. Suppl. 4 June 615/3 The editor..must..shrug off the pricks of professional doryphores. 1989 New Yorker 3 Apr. 99/2 When [the editors]..took me to lunch, they were rigidly abstemious, lest they fuddle their minds and give hostages to subsequent doryphores on returning to work.
ecstacy (EK-stah-see) — 1. intense joy or delight. 2. a state of emotion so intense that one is carried beyond rational thought and self-control. 3. the trance, frenzy, or rapture associated with mystic or prophetic exaltation
Dude, pick it. It's not the drug, man. It's the word.
effervescence (ef-er-VES-ence) — 1. to give off bubbles of gas. 2. to issue forth in bubbles. 3. to show enthusiasm, excitement, liveliness
It is a light and airy word which reminds me of the vitality of life for some reason.
efficacious (ef-i-KAY-shes) — producing or capable of producing a desired effect
effusive (i-FYOO-siv) — 1. unrestrained or excessive in emotional expression. 2. profuse; overflowing
egregious (i-GREE-jes) — conspicuously bad or offensive
eleemosynary (el-ah-MOS-ah-ner-ee) — of, relating to, or dependent on charity
empress (EM-pris) — 1. the woman ruler of an empire. 2. the wife or widow of an emperor
It's something I can't really explain; this word just says power. It makes me think of Cleopatra, the ultimate empress. And the word itself sounds great: Empress! (You should hear the word in Portuguese: Imperatriz. It's beautiful.)
enigma (i-NIG-mah) — 1. one that is puzzling, ambiguous, or inexplicable. 2. a perplexing speech or text; a riddle
Such a "serious" sounding word. So much better than "mystery."
ennui (on-WEE) — boredom; listlessness and dissatisfaction resulting from lack of interest
ensoul (en-SOL) — 1. to endow with a soul. 2. to place, receive, or cherish in the soul
ephemeral (i-FEM-er-al) — lasting for a markedly brief time. 2. lasting or living for only a day, as certain plants and insects do
epicaricacy (EP-i-kar-ik-i-see) — taking pleasure in other's misfortune; schadenfreude
This word has caused a lot of discussion of late on a couple of forums that discuss these sorts of things. It's an English word, albeit probably an inkhorn term, for a concept that isn't supposed to have a word in English. quoting Nathan Bailey's An Universal Etymological English Dictionary, which is a very olde dictionary indeed (1721): "Epicharikaky — from the Greek words or roots for 'upon', 'joy', and 'evil': 'A Joy at the Misfortunes of others'".
epiphany (i-PIF-ah-nee) — 1. a Christian feast celebrating the manifestation of the divine nature of Jesus to the Gentiles as represented by the Magi; January 6, on which this feast is traditionally observed. 2. a revelatory manifestation of a divine being. 3. a sudden manifestation of the essence or meaning of something; a comprehension or perception of reality by means of a sudden intuitive realization
equestrian (i-KWES-tree-an) — of or relating to horseback riding or horseback riders
I don't know why, but I've always loved the word equestrian. Denying its true meaning, it has always made me feel as though I were underwater.
equinox (EE-kwah-noks) 1. either of two points on the celestial sphere at which the ecliptic intersects the celestial equator. 2. either of the two times during a year when the sun crosses the celestial equator and when the length of day and night are approximately equal; the vernal equinox or the autumnal equinox
This word is one of my favourites because of the unique sound.
esoteric (es-ah-TER-ik) — 1. intended for or understood by only a particular group; of or relating to that which is known by a restricted number of people. 2. confined to a small group; not publicly disclosed; confidential
ethereal (i-THIR-ee-el) — 1. characterized by lightness and insubstantiality; intangible. 2. highly refined; delicate. 3. of the celestial spheres; heavenly; not of this world; spiritual. 4. of or relating to ether
I love the way it sounds, how it looks, and its connotations.
etiolate (EE-tee-i-late) — 1. to cause (a plant) to develop without chlorophyll by preventing exposure to sunlight. 2. to cause to appear pale and sickly; to make weak by stunting the growth or development of
euphony (YOO-fah-nee) — agreeable sound
euphoria (yoo-FOR-ee-ah) — a feeling of great happiness or well-being
eviscerate (i-VIS-ah-ate) — 1. to remove the entrails of; disembowel. 2. to take away a vital or essential part of. 3. to remove the contents of an organ. 4. to remove an organ from a patient
1. I love this word because you rarely hear it, but it describes almost everything said by me and my friends.
2. You already have this word, but i like it because it has all the vowels in alphabetical order ... especially if written "facetiously."
fantastical (fan-TAS-ti-kel) — 1. quaint or strange in form, conception, or appearance. 2. unrestrainedly fanciful; extravagant; bizarre, as in form or appearance; strange; based on or existing only in fantasy; unreal. 3. wonderful or superb; remarkable
Love the sound and meaning of the word :)
fastidious (fah-STID-ee-es) — 1. possessing or displaying careful, meticulous attention to detail. 2. difficult to please; exacting. 3. excessively scrupulous or sensitive, especially in matters of taste or propriety
It's just so upper crust.
faux pas (foh-PAH) — a social blunder
I think it speaks for itself. Such a word deserves to be on your list. I use it often it easily slips into my conversations without thought.
febrile (FEB-rel) of, relating to, or characterized by fever; feverish
fecund (FEE-kund) — 1. capable of producing offspring or vegetation; fruitful. 2. marked by intellectual productivity
feral (FER-el) — 1. in a wild state, especially after having been domesticated. 2. resembling a wild animal.
flibbertigibbet (FLIB-er-tee-jib-it) — a silly, scatterbrained, or garrulous person
fond (FOND) — 1. having a strong liking, inclination, or affection. 2. affectionate; tender. 3. immoderately affectionate or indulgent; doting. 4. cherished; dear
It is a sweet word.
foofaraw (FOO-fah-ro) — 1. unnecessary things added for ornamentation; excessive or flashy ornamentation; frills. 2. a fuss over a trifling matter
foppish (FOP-ish) — of, relating to, or characteristic of a fop; dandified
Its synonym, "dandified," is just as cool.
frangipani (fran-jah-PAN-ee) — 1. any of various tropical American deciduous shrubs or trees of the genus Plumeria, having milky sap and showy, fragrant, funnel-shaped, variously colored flowers. Also called temple tree. 2. a perfume derived from or similar in scent to the flowers of one of these shrubs or trees. 3. also fran·gi·pane (FRAN-jah-pan) a creamy pastry filling flavored with almonds
It's just so odd, but it does help conjure the fragrance and the foreigness of the flowers it denotes.
fungible (FUN-ji-ble) — 1. being of such a nature that one part or quantity may be replaced by another equal part or quantity in the satisfaction of an obligation. 2. interchangeable
My current favorite. It conveys a useful concept and is fun to say.
fustigate (FUS-ti-gate) — 1. to beat with a club; cudgel. 2. to criticize harshly
futilitarian (FYOO-til-i-tar-ee-an) — one who holds the view that human endeavor is futile
gallivant (GAL-ah-vant) — to roam about in search of pleasure or amusement
garçonnière (gar-son-NYER) a bachelor's apartment or quarters
gargantuan (gar-GAN-choo-en) of immense size, volume, or capacity; gigantic
gelid (JEL-id) — very cold; icy
Just an odd word I don't see enough that recalled stumbling into while reading the dictionary once when I was 12. I never forgot the word and seldom see it used. Neat how it is similar in meaning to the word gelato.
gesticulate (je-STIK-yah-late) — to make gestures especially while speaking, as for emphasis
gigglesome (GIG-el-sum) — prone to giggling
glisten (GLIS-en) — to shine by reflection with a sparkling luster
Doesn't the word just shine when you say it?
globule (GLOB-yool) — a small spherical mass, especially a small drop of liquid
I love the way it rolls off your tongue when pronouced -- try it!
Godspeed (GOD-speed) — success or good fortune
grandiloquent (gran-DIL-ah-kwent) — using high-flown, pompous, bombastic words and expressions
The word itself is dignified and poised; besides, isn't it funny to have a big, impressive word about big, impressive words?
guacamole (gwah-kah-MO-lee) — a thick paste of mashed avocado, often combined with citrus juice, onion, and seasonings and usually served as a dip or in salads
Perhaps too common, but so much fun to say. If you do not have fun saying it, you are most likely mispronouncing it.
gumption (GUMP-shen) — 1. boldness of enterprise; initiative or aggressiveness. 2. guts; spunk. 3. common sense
First saw this as a name of a cleaning product, I couldn't stop laughing at the word. It reminds me of very stubborn people that stick at something no matter what, like gum on a surface.
Halcyon — one of the best words I have ever come across. The pronounciation is as sweet as the meaning. See the joy you get when you say the word, as in the Halcyon days of youth.
hemidemisemiquaver (hem-ee-dem-ee-SEM-ee-kwa-ver) — a sixty-fourth note.
hobbledehoy (HOB-el-dee-hoi) — a gawky adolescent boy
hoi polloi (hoi-pah-LOI) — the common people; the masses
Sounds delightful, yet its meaning is derogatory.
homeostasis (ho-mee-oh-STA-sis) — the ability or tendency of an organism or cell to maintain internal equilibrium by adjusting its physiological processes
It's just a calming word that means a peaceful, happy, yet intelligent state!
homologate (hah-MOL-ah-gate) — 1. to approve. 2. to confirm officially
hubris (HYOO-bris) — excessive pride or self-confidence; arrogance.
This word is striking, bold and its meaning is completely unexpected.
hullabaloo (HUL-ah-bah-loo) — great noise or excitement; uproar
It rolls off the tongue and sounds like a jumble of voices.
hyperbole (hi-PUR-bah-lee) — a deliberate exaggeration of speech or writing used for effect.
In my humble opinion it is the most rhythmic and pleasant word to pronounce in my vocabulary. But I have often heard people phonate it as HIGH-PER-BOWL.
ichthyophagous (ik-the-OFF-ah-ges) — feeding on fish
immolate (IM-ah-late) — 1. to kill as a sacrifice. 2. to kill oneself by fire. 3. to destroy.
Admittedly at first grasp, it is a dark word, but I believe it to be not fully justified until further inspection. It's basis is fire, which is in itself life, yet of course it means to sacrifice one's self and ultimately, death. Immolate brings forth an emotion I believe to be described as beautifully depressing -- an emotion I see becoming more and more popular in people within this world.
inchoate (in-KOH-it) 1. in an initial or early stage; incipient. 2. imperfectly formed or developed.
idiosyncrasy (id-ee-oh-SING-krah-see) — a peculiarity of physical or mental constitution or temperament; a characteristic belonging to, and distinguishing, an individual
incongruous (in-KONG-groo-es) — 1. lacking in harmony; incompatible. 2. not in agreement, as with principles; inconsistent. 3. not in keeping with what is correct, proper, or logical; inappropriate
indubitably (in-DOO-bi-tah-blee) — unquestionably; without doubt
The consonant combination is so fun to say!
ineluctable (in-i-LUK-tah-ble) — unable to be resisted or avoided; inevitable
infelicitous (in-fi-LIS-i-tes) — 1. inappropriate; ill-chosen. 2. not happy; unfortunate
It relates to anything which fails to do what it intends to do, such as a sentence without any purpose. I have no idea how it is actually meant to be pronounced, but I say it 'in-fel-i-SEE-shus'. It is amusing to ask people to try and say it. They normally pronounce it infelicitiously.
insatiable (in-SA-sha-ble) — impossible to satiate or satisfy
insouciant (in-SOO-see-ant) — marked by blithe unconcern; nonchalant
I just think it's an amazing word. It isn't even in every dictionary and some people think it's spelled wrong. It means "carefree," basically. It makes me reminisce my childhood!
isocheim (I-so-kime) — a line connecting places on the earth having the same mean winter temperature
I've always liked the way "isocheim" sounds.
isthmus (IS-mes) — 1. a narrow strip of land connecting two larger masses of land. 2. a narrow strip of tissue joining two larger organs or parts of an organ; a narrow passage connecting two larger cavities
lachrymose (LAK-rah-mos) — 1. weeping or inclined to weep; tearful. 2. causing or tending to cause tears.
It's just a beautifully sad word. If all the words for despair were this pretty no one would be sad for long. Oh, and it's relation to Mozart's Mass in D minor gives it some chilling back story.
lackadaisical (lak-ah-DA-zi-kel) — lacking spirit, liveliness, or interest; languid
lambent (LAM-bent) — 1. flickering lightly over or on a surface. 2. effortlessly light or brilliant. 3. having a gentle glow; luminous
I love the "softly glowing" sound of this word and all it evokes.
lascivious (lah-SIV-ee-es) — 1. given to or expressing lust; lecherous. 2. exciting sexual desires; salacious
Shakespeare used the word like punctuation in "Othello."
lethologica (lee-tho-LO-gi-ca) — 1. the inability to remember the right word. 2. a psychological disorder that inhibits an individual's ability to articulate thoughts by temporarily forgetting key words, phrases, or names in conversation
It's that state of being where you can't remember the word you're looking for. I find it tremendously interesting that I can remember the name for the situation that I'd be in, but not the simple word I'd be looking for.
libertine (LIB-er-teen) — 1. one who acts without moral restraint; a dissolute person. 2. one who defies established religious precepts; a freethinker
I came across the word while researching a paper on sexual ethics. I think it is a very interesting word because of its definition, and because I am sure some use it negatively, I find it to be engaging.
limpid (LIM-pid) 1. characterized by transparent clearness; pellucid. 2. easily intelligible; clear. 3. calm and untroubled; serene
Its prefix comes from a much more luminous and lyrical word for water than the angular and tinny "aqua." Its own sound provides the liquidity from which it arises. A most beautiful word!
lissome (LIS-em) 1. easily bent; supple. 2. having the ability to move with ease; limber
A simply beautiful and mellifluous word.
loam (LOM) 1. soil composed of a mixture of sand, clay, silt, and organic matter. 2. a mixture of moist clay and sand, and often straw, used especially in making bricks and foundry molds
Something about the sound of it is oddly comforting.
logomachy (lah-GOM-ah-kee) 1. a dispute about words. 2. a battle of words
What could be more pertinent to a website that determines what the best words are?
loathsome (LOTH-sum) arousing loathing; abhorrent
Saying this word slowly really gets the message across. Love it.
loquacious (lo-KWA-shes) — very talkative; garrulous
I have loved it since I was a child and my teacher wrote it in my school report. The word sounds as if only the well spoken would be loquacious. The rest of us poor plebs would merely be chatty.
louche (LOOSH) — of questionable taste or morality; decadent
The very sound of it conjures decadence.
lubricious (loo-BRISH-es) — 1. having a slippery or smooth quality. 2. shifty or tricky. 3. lewd; wanton; sexually stimulating; salacious
I am an interventional radiologist. This word is commonly used to describe characteristic of certain guide-wires which, once moistened, develop a very useful slippery coating. Delving a little further into its definition, things become a little more interesting:
1. arousing or expressive of sexual desire; lustful; lecherous.
2. (of a surface, coating, etc.) having an oily smoothness; slippery.
3. unstable; shifty; fleeting.
The latter brings to mind, Zoltan Karpathy, the Hungarian count from My Fair Lady. "Oozing charm from every pore, he oiled his way around the floor..."
Hope it makes the cut!
lucubrate (loo-KYOO-brate) — to study diligently; to write in a scholarly way
lugubrious (loo-GOO-bree-es) — mournful, dismal, or gloomy, especially to an exaggerated or ludicrous degree
Just say it; hear it in your ears. It's luscious.
lumpenproletariat (lum-pen-proh-li-TAR-ee-it) — 1. the lowest, most degraded stratum of the proletariat. Used originally in Marxist theory to describe those members of the proletariat, especially criminals, vagrants, and the unemployed, who lacked class consciousness. 2. the underclass of a human population
machiavellian (mak-ee-ah-VEL-ee-en) — 1. of or relating to Machiavelli or Machiavellianism. 2. suggestive of or characterized by expediency, deceit, and cunning.
I love the way this word sounds, and the history of the origin of this word is quite interesting.
machination (mak-ah-NA-shen) — 1. the act of plotting. 2. a crafty scheme or cunning design for the accomplishment of a sinister end
majuscule (mah-JUS-kyool) — a large letter, either capital or uncial, used in writing or printing.
A beautiful word describing a beautiful thing.
malacophonous (mal-ah-KOF-i-nus) — having a soft voice
mammiferous (mah-MIF-er-es) — having mammary glands
masticate (MAS-ti-kate) — 1. to chew (food). 2. to grind and knead (rubber, for example) into a pulp
Because it sounds like masturbate and everyone thinks it is a dirty word.
matutinal (mah-TOOT-en-el) — of, relating to, or occurring in the morning; early
This word has a French root, which to me seems rare. The only time I have ever seen it used was in The Glass Bead Game by Herman Hesse.
megalomaniac (meg-ah-lo-MAN-ee-ak) — 1. a person with a psychopathological condition characterized by delusional fantasies of wealth, power, or omnipotence. 2. a person who has an obsession with grandiose or extravagant things or actions
melancholy (MEL-an-kol-ee) — 1. a gloomy state of mind, esp. when habitual or prolonged; depression. 2. sober thoughtfulness; pensiveness. 3. the condition of having too much black bile, considered in ancient and medieval medicine to cause gloominess and depression; black bile
mellifluous (mah-LIF-loo-es) — sweetly flowing; smooth and sweet
mendacity (men-DAS-i-tee) — a lie; falsehood
meretricious (mer-i-TRISH-es) — 1. attracting attention in a vulgar manner; plausible but false or insincere; specious. 2. of or relating to prostitutes or prostitution.
This word is both fun to say and interesting in meaning: although it sounds complimentary, it in fact tawdry or prostitute-like, from the Latin meretrix, which means whore.
merkin (MUR-kin) — a pubic wig for women
metanoia (MET-ah-noi-ah) — a profound, usually spiritual, transformation; a conversion or awakening.
It's such a pretty, powerful word to describe a pinnacle event in a person's life.
miasma (mi-AZ-mah) — 1. a noxious atmosphere or influence. 2. a poisonous atmosphere formerly thought to rise from swamps and putrid matter and cause disease; a thick vaporous atmosphere or emanation
micturate (MIK-cha-rate) — to eliminate urine; to pee
Solves the problem of a polite way to describe "making water."
milquetoast (MILK-toast) — one who has a meek, timid, unassertive nature
A humorous word I've seen used by George Saunders in CivilWarLand in Bad Decline. The word "milquetoast" is a testament to how popular culture affects our language given that it is supposedly derived from a comic strip.
misanthropy (mis-AN-thra-pee) — hatred or mistrust of humankind
misogyny (mi-SOJ-ah-nee) — hatred of women
moist (MOIST) — 1. slightly wet; damp or humid. 2. filled with or characterized by moisture. 3. tearful
I love the way it rolls out of the mouth, across the lips round and full, and with a crisp ending. It is a luxuriant, sensuous word.
monophagous (moh-NAF-ah-ges) — eating only one kind of food
mulct (MULKT) — 1. to penalize by fining or demanding forfeiture. 2. to acquire by trickery or deception. 3. to swindle or defraud
mustachioed (mah-STASH-ee-ode) — having a mustache, esp. a luxuriant mustache.
The only word in the English language that rhymes with pistachioed.
myriad (MIR-ee-ed) — a vast number; originally, ten thousand
Originally Greek for 10,000 (one hundred hundred; Remember that one million can be expressed as one hundred hundred hundred), the word now practically synonymous with "plethora."
myrmidon (MUR-mi-don) — 1. a member of a warlike Thessalian people who were ruled by Achilles and followed him on the expedition against Troy. 2. a faithful follower who carries out orders without question
I've always liked this word: It's mellifluous — even somewhat onomatopoeic — and it's always relevant.
mythomania (mith-oh-MAY-nee-ah) — a compulsion to exaggerate or tell lies
nadir (NA-dir) — 1. a point on the celestial sphere directly below the observer, diametrically opposite the zenith. 2. the lowest point
nebulous (NEB-yah-les) — 1. cloudy, misty, or hazy. 2. lacking definite form or limits; vague. 3. of, relating to, or characteristic of a nebula
Nebulous is an intriguing word that adds excitement in conversation and in text.
necromancy (NEK-roh-man-see) — 1. the practice of supposedly communicating with the spirits of the dead in order to predict the future. 2. black magic; sorcery. 3. magic qualities
The "necro" words seem all to lead into the ultimate ending: necrobiosis, necrolatry, necrology, necrophobia, etc. But this one has a special feel to it because it relates to the future as well as the past.
nefarious (nah-FAR-ee-es) — infamous by way of being extremely wicked
It gives me a thrill whenever I say it, and makes me think of a dashingly dark and wicked man with a waxed mustache and black cape.
nepenthe (ni-PEN-thee) — 1. a drug mentioned in the Odyssey as a remedy for grief. 2. something that induces forgetfulness of sorrow or eases pain
nihilistic (ni-ah-LIS-tik) — 1. believing all values are baseless and that nothing can be known or communicated. 2. rejecting all distinctions in moral or religious value and repudiating all previous theories of morality or religious belief. 3. believing that destruction of existing political or social institutions is necessary for future improvement. 4. having the delusion that the world or one's mind, body, or self does not exist
noctilucous (nok-ti-LYOO-kes) — shining in the night
Shining at night. I think it's simply cool.
nuance (NOO-ans) — 1. a subtle or slight degree of difference, as in meaning, feeling, or tone; a gradation. 2. expression or appreciation of subtle shades of meaning, feeling, or tone
A unique and highly descriptive word.
nullipara (nah-LIP-er-ah) — a woman who has never given birth
obfuscate (ob-fah-SKAT) — 1. to make so confused or opaque as to be difficult to perceive or understand. 2. to render indistinct or dim; darken
oblivion (ah-BLIV-ee-on) — 1. the condition or quality of being completely forgotten. 2. the act or an instance of forgetting; total forgetfulness. 3. official overlooking of offenses; amnesty.
obloquy (OB-lah-kwee) — verbal abuse of a person or thing
obsequious (ob-SEE-kwee-es) full of or exhibiting servile compliance; fawning
octogenarian (ok-tah-jah-NAR-ee-an) — a person between 80 and 90 years of age.
This word is used to describe a person between the ages of 80 and 90 years old. It is interesting that such a word exists
odious (OH-dee-es) — repugnant; hateful
officious (ah-FISH-es) — meddlesome; unnecessarily or obtrusively ready to offer advice or services
olecranon (oh-LEK-rah-non) — The large process on the upper end of the ulna that projects behind the elbow joint and forms the point of the elbow
omphaloskepsis (om-fah-loh-SKEP-sis) — contemplation of one's navel
oneiric (oh-NI-rik) — of, relating to, or suggestive of dreams.
It's not a common word, but has a beautiful sound — nicely related to its meaning
oniochalasia (oh-nee-oh-cha-LAY-see-ah) — buying as a means of mental relaxation
onomatopoeia (on-ah-mat-ah-PEE-ah) — a word or a grouping of words that imitates the sound it is describing, suggesting its source object, such as "click," "buzz," or "bluuuh," or animal noises such as "oink," "quack," or "meow"
ophidian (oh-FID-ee-an) of, relating to, or resembling snakes
opulent (OP-yah-lent) — 1. having or exhibiting great wealth; affluent. 2. characterized by rich abundance; luxuriant.
... conjures up chandeliers, velvet and decadence..
oubliette (oo-blee-ET) — a dungeon with a trapdoor in the ceiling as its only means of entrance or exit
This is the word for a dungeon with an opening only at the top. I've loved the word since I first heard it in the movie, Labyrinth. It just has a certain mysteriousness about it.
oxymoron (ok-see-MOR-on) — a rhetorical figure in which incongruous or contradictory terms are combined, as in "a deafening silence" and "a mournful optimist"
This is a Sioux or Creek word that is frequently used in my family. It means crooked or unbalanced. A picture hanging on the wall might be pajuxy. I've tried to search online to verify the spelling, but haven't had any luck. I use this word around friends and no one ever asks me the meaning...they all seem to just understand. It is fun to say and helps our family stay in touch with our roots. Enjoy.
panacea (pan-ah-SEE-ah) — a remedy for all diseases, evils, or difficulties; a cure-all
panache (pah-NASH) — 1. dash; verve. 2. a bunch of feathers or a plume, especially on a helmet
pandiculation (pan-dik-yoo-LA-shen) — yawning and stretching (as when first waking up).
It reminds me of work!
paraphernalia (par-ah-fer-NAL-yah) — 1. personal belongings. 2. the articles used in a particular activity; equipment. 3. a married woman's personal property exclusive of her dowry, according to common law.
parsimonious (par-si-MO-nee-es) — excessively sparing or frugal
A seemingly nice way to call someone a cheapskate or a tightwad.
peculiar (pi-KYOOL-yer) — 1. unusual or eccentric; odd. 2. distinct from all others. 3. belonging distinctively or primarily to one person, group, or kind; special or unique
It's not long or uncommon, but just listen to it: "Peculiar." Isn't that such a peculiar word? I just love it.
penchant (PEN-chant) — a definite liking; a strong inclination
Just use it a sentence and you'll know why. Not a very uncommon word, yet still exclusive. It really sends the message in a graceful way. (I can't possibly praise a word more than this, its embarassing.)
penultimate (pi-NUL-tah-mit) — next to last
penumbra (pi-NUM-bra) — 1. a partial shadow, as in an eclipse, between regions of complete shadow and complete illumination. 2. the grayish outer part of a sunspot. 3. an area in which something exists to a lesser or uncertain degree. 4. an outlying surrounding region; a periphery.
The word for the center portion of a shadow edge has a mystical ring to it when you say it, the whole of the word starts at the end of the tongue and just leaps from your mouth when you finish it.
perambulate (pe-RAM-byah-late) — walk through, about, or over; stroll
peregrinate (PER-i-gri-nate) — to journey or travel from place to place, especially on foot
Great word which means to wander.
perseverate (per-SEV-er-ate) to manifest or experience perseveration: uncontrollable repetition of a particular response, such as a word, phrase, or gesture, despite the absence or cessation of a stimulus, usually caused by brain injury or other organic disorder; the tendency to continue or repeat an act or activity after the cessation of the original stimulus
This word specifically refers to the act of repeating an action or word beyond its usefulness. A child who perseverates, for instance, will draw a line from one edge of the paper to the other, and go on drawing past the edge of the paper.
perspicacious (pur-spi-KAY-shes) — having keen judgment or understanding; acutely perceptive
phalanges (pha-LAN-jeez) — a bone of a finger or toe
phalanx (FA-langks) — a compact group of people
phantasmagoria (fan-taz-mah-GOR-ee-ah) 1. a fantastic sequence of haphazardly associative imagery, as seen in dreams or fever; a constantly changing scene composed of numerous elements. 2. fantastic imagery as represented in art
philander (fi-LAN-der) — 1. to carry on a sexual affair, especially an extramarital affair, with a woman one cannot or does not intend to marry (used of a man) 2. to engage in many love affairs, especially with a frivolous or casual attitude (used of a man)
This is my new favorite word!! I can't believe it's an actual legitimate term.
philippic (fi-LIP-ik) — 1. any of the orations of Demosthenes against Philip of Macedon in the fourth century BC. 2. any of the orations of Cicero against Antony in 44 BC. 3. a verbal denunciation characterized by harsh, often insulting language; a tirade.
Simply said, I love this word and its meaning. Just say it then read the meaning. I also love the interesting history behind the word as well.
philogyny (fi-LOJ-ah-nee) — fondness for women; uxoriousness
phobophobia (fo-bah-FO-bee-ah) — a morbid dread or fear of developing a phobia
pilgarlic (pil-GAR-lik) — a bald-headed man
plausible (PLAU-zi-ble) — 1. seemingly or apparently valid, likely, or acceptable; credible. 2. giving a deceptive impression of truth or reliability. 3. disingenuously smooth; fast-talking
pleonasm (PLEE-ah-naz-em) 1. the use of more words than are required to express an idea; redundancy. 2. a superfluous word or phrase
plethora (PLETH-er-ah) — 1. a superabundance; an excess. 2. an excess of blood in the circulatory system or in one organ or area
pogonip (PO-go-nip)
I just learned this word the other day. It's a form of precipitation/fog that only happens if the temperature is at or below 0° C and the humidity is near 100% It's a midwestern U.S. type of precip. The word comes from a Native American term (cannot remember the tribe!) and means "white death."
poltergeist (POL-ter-gist) — a ghost that manifests itself by noises, rappings, and the creation of disorder
A fun word seen more and more in newspapers and magazines.
poltroon (pol-TROON) — a contemptible coward
polymath (POL-ee-math) — a person of great or varied learning
pompous (POM-pes) 1. characterized by excessive self-esteem or exaggerated dignity; pretentious. 2. full of high-sounding phrases; bombastic. 3. chracterized by pomp or stately display; ceremonious.
I love this word; it's so sophisticated.
poppysmic lip-smacking
Tell someone the word and its meaning and watch them start poppysmicing away!
porphyrophobia (por-fi-ROH-foh-bee-ah) — fear of the color purple
prandial (PRAN-dee-al) — relating to a meal, esp. dinner
prelapsarian (pre-lap-SAR-ee-an) — of or relating to the period before the fall of Adam and Eve
Hey, this is a great word. It means since the fall of man going back to Adam and Eve. We have an excuse for all our failures! Blame Adam and Eve!
reconnoiter (ree-kah-NOI-ter) — to make a preliminary inspection; to look around
repellant (ri-PEL-ent) — 1. serving or tending to repel; able to repel. 2. inspiring aversion or distaste; repulsive. 3. resistant or impervious to a substance
It's elegant, avoiding the guttural sound of "disgusting" while preserving the meaning.
resplendent (ri-SPLEN-dent) — splendid or dazzling in appearance; brilliant
An excellent response to, "How are you?" and "How do I look?"
reticulate (ri-TIK-yah-lat) — resembling or forming a net or network
reverie (REV-ah-ree) — 1. a state of abstracted musing; daydreaming. 2. a daydream
rhomboidal (rom-BOID-el) — shaped like a rhomboid or rhombus
ribaldry (RI-bal-dree) — coarse language or humor
ricochet (RIC-ah-shay) — to rebound
rive (RIVE) — 1. to rend or tear apart. 2. to break into pieces; cleave or split asunder. 3. to break or distress (the spirit, for example).
rivulet (RIV-yah-lit) — a small brook or stream; a streamlet
rodomontade (rod-ah-mon-TADE) — pretentious boasting or bragging; bluster
salient (SA-lee-ent) — 1. projecting or jutting beyond a line or surface; protruding. 2. strikingly conspicuous; prominent. 3. springing; jumping.
The "s" sound at the beginning is elegant and wispy, leading into a series of vowels that roll across the tongue, and finishing with a clear, humble consonant.
salubrious (sah-LOO-bree-es) — conducive to health or well-being
sanctimonious (sangk-tah-MOH-nee-es) — feigning piety or righteousness
It is rather effective and tends to stop people speaking if you use it in reference to what they are saying, and it just generally rolls off the tongue quite nicely
sarcophagus (sar-KOF-ah-ges) — an above-ground stone coffin, often inscribed or decorated with sculpture
scalawag (SKAL-ah-wag) — scamp; rascal; reprobate
schadenfreude (SHAD-en-froi-dah) — pleasure derived from another's misfortune
schlong (SCHLONG) — a sizeable penis
schussboomer (SHUS-boo-mer) a fast downhill skier; someone who skis down a mountain very quickly and skillfully
The pronunciation is similar to the sound of skis slicing through snow.
scintilla (sin-TIL-ah) — 1. a minute amount; an iota or trace. 2. a spark; a flash
scintillation (sin-til-LAY-shen) — 1. the act of scintillating; sparkling 2. a spark; flash; twinkling. 3. a brilliant display of wit. 4. the twinkling of the stars caused by turbulence in the Earth's atmosphere
It sounds like it glitters; it's almost onomatopoeia.
scree (SKREE) — 1. loose rock debris covering a slope. 2. a slope of loose rock debris at the base of a steep incline or cliff
scuppernong (SKUP-er-nong) — 1. muscadine. 2. a cultivated variety of the muscadine grape with sweet yellowish fruit; a wine made from this grape
It just sounds like it's from the American south, doesn't it?
scurrilous — (SKUR-ah-les) 1. given to the use of vulgar, coarse, or abusive language. 2. expressed in vulgar, coarse, or abusive language
senescence (si-NES-sence) — growing old; aging
serendipity (ser-en-DIP-i-tee) — 1. the faculty of making fortunate discoveries by accident. 2. the fact or occurrence of such discoveries. 3. an instance of making such a discovery
The shape of the word in your mouth makes you believe everything will come out okay.
sesquipedalian (ses-kwi-pi-DAY-lee-en) — 1. given to using long words. 2. (of a word) containing many syllables
shibboleth (SHIB-ah-lith) — 1. a word or pronunciation that distinguishes people of one group or class from those of another. 2. a word or phrase identified with a particular group or cause; a catchword; a commonplace saying or idea. 3. a custom or practice that betrays one as an outsider
sialic (sigh-AL-ik) — having or having the characteristics of saliva
sidereal (sigh-DIR-ee-el) — 1. of, relating to, or concerned with the stars or constellations; stellar. 2. measured or determined by means of the apparent daily motion of the stars.
This word really paints a pretty picture in your head & it's fun to say because it's not pronounced the way it's written.
siderodromophobia (si-der-oh-droh-moh-PHO-bee-ah) — fear of trains, railroads, or train travel
simplicity (sim-PLIS-i-tee) — 1. the property, condition, or quality of being simple or uncombined. 2. absence of luxury or showiness; plainness. 3. absence of affectation or pretense.
Not only is it simple and pretty, it is also something to be learned. If everyone learned the word and loved it as I do, the world might be a simpler place.
skulk (SKULK) — 1. to lie in hiding, as out of cowardice or bad conscience; lurk. 2. to move about stealthily. 3. to evade work or obligation; shirk.
It's sharp sound is perfect accompaniment to its definition. Also, the occurrence of the "skull" sound adds a hint of malice.
skullduggery (skul-DUG-ah-ree) — crafty deception or trickery or an instance of it
I love this word because it's a mouthful, but its sounds go together wonderfully. It means a trick or a scheme... a bit of skullduggery.
sluice (SLOOS) — n. 1. an artificial channel for conducting water, with a valve or gate to regulate the flow; a valve or gate used in such a channel; a floodgate. 2. a body of water impounded behind a floodgate. 3. a sluiceway. 4. a long inclined trough, as for carrying logs or separating gold ore
v. 1. to flood or drench with or as if with a flow of released water. 2. to wash with water flowing in a sluice. 3. to draw off or let out by a sluice. 4. to send (logs, for example) down a sluice
I think it's among some of the best words because if you were to "sluice" anything the sound would be the same as pronouncing the word. It just has such a mouthsome taste! (And I know mouthsome's not a word, but it fits. :)
smorgasbord (SMOR-gus-bord) — 1. a buffet meal featuring a varied number of dishes. 2. a varied collection
soliloquy (sah-LIL-ah-kwee) — 1. a dramatic or literary form of discourse in which a character talks to himself or herself or reveals his or her thoughts without addressing a listener; a specific speech or piece of writing in this form of discourse. 2. the act of speaking to oneself
It fits into your mouth and has a fun, quirky meaning.
solipsism (SOL-ip-siz-em) — the belief that the self is the only reality
somnambulism (som-NAM-byah-liz-em) sleepwalking
somnambulist (som-NAM-byah-list) sleepwalker
splendiferous (splen-DIF-er-es) — splendid
Splendiferous just sounds so cool. In a conversation, would you rather say "that's awesome!" or "that's splendiferous!"?
splenetic (spli-NET-ik) — 1. of or relating to the spleen. 2. affected or marked by ill humor or irritability
sprocket (SPROK-it) — 1. any of various toothlike projections arranged on a wheel rim to engage the links of a chain. 2. a cylinder with a toothed rim that engages in the perforations of photographic or movie film to pull it through a camera or projector
steatopygian (stee-at-oh-PIJ-ee-ah) — having an excess accumulation of fat on the buttocks
stentorian (sten-TOR-ee-en) — very loud
struthious (STROO-thee-es) — of, relating to, or resembling an ostrich or a related bird; ratite
succumb (sah-KUM) — 1. to submit to an overpowering force or yield to an overwhelming desire; give up or give in. 2. to die
supercilious (soo-per-SIL-ee-es) — feeling or showing haughty disdain
It's awesome! If someone is supercilious, they are full of contempt, arrogance and pride. Just rolls off your tongue...right?
superfluous (soo-PUR-floo-es) — being beyond what is required or sufficient
surreptitious (sur-ep-TISH-es) — done or acquired by clandestine means
susurrus (soo-SUR-es) — a soft, whispering or rustling sound; a murmur
I find it to be a beautiful word, in the way it looks and sounds, as well as its meaning. It brings me to a place of peace where I can imagine lying in a hammock, shaded by the trees, listening to leaves rustling and the whisper of long grass as it sways in a warm summer breeze.
swashbuckler (SWOSH-buk-ler) — 1. a flamboyant swordsman or adventurer. 2. a sword-wielding ruffian or bully. 3. a dramatic or literary work dealing with a swashbuckler
synecdoche (si-NEK-dah-kee) — A figure of speech in which a part is used for the whole (as hand for sailor), the whole for a part (as the law for police officer), the specific for the general (as cutthroat for assassin), the general for the specific (as thief for pickpocket), or the material for the thing made from it (as steel for sword)
It's just cool that there's a word for this.
syzygy (SIZ-ah-jee) — 1. either of two points in the orbit of a celestial body where the body is in opposition to or in conjunction with the sun. 2. either of two points in the orbit of the moon when the moon lies in a straight line with the sun and Earth. 3. the configuration of the sun, the moon, and Earth lying in a straight line. 4. the combining of two feet into a single metrical unit in classical prosody
taint (TAINT) — 1. to affect with or as if with a disease. 2. to affect with decay or putrefaction; spoil. 3. to corrupt morally. 4. to affect with a tinge of something reprehensible
tarradiddle (TAR-ah-did-el) — 1. a petty falsehood; a fib. 2. silly pretentious speech or writing; twaddle
tatterdemalion (tat-er-di-MAL-yen) — a ragamuffin
tergiversate (ter-JIV-er-sate) — to equivocate; to change sides
threnody (THREN-ah-dee) — a poem or song of mourning or lamentation
tintinnabulation (tin-ti-nab-yah-LA-shen) — the ringing or sounding of bells
tintinnabulum (tin-ti-NAB-yah-lum) — a small, tinkling bell
The word is rhythmic and naturally descends in pitch as you say it. It's a musical word.
titillating (TIT-i-layt-ing) 1. stimulating from light touching; tickling. 2. pleasurably, superficially, or erotically exciting
Most people understand what this word means, even if they have never heard it before. It's a word of strength.
tittle (TIT-el) — 1. a small diacritic mark, such as an accent over an e or dot over an i. 2. a tiny amount; a jot or whit.
I love this word because once you hear it you become addicted to telling everyone what it means.
tmesis (TME-sis) — separation of the parts of a compound word by one or more intervening words; for example, where I go ever instead of wherever I go.
The interjection of one word inside another, for example, absobloominglutely.
topsy-turvy (TOP-see-TUR-vee) — 1. upside down. 2. in a confused or chaotic state.
I just think its a great word, makes me laugh every time i hear it!
torpid (TOR-pid) — 1. deprived of the power of motion or feeling; benumbed. 2. dormant; hibernating. 3. lethargic; apathetic
tramontane (trah-MON-tane) — 1. a person who lives beyond the mountains. 2. A foreigner; a stranger. 3. A cold north wind in Italy
triskaidekaphobia (tris-ki-dek-ah-FO-bee-ah) — an abnormal fear of the number 13
troglodyte (TROG-lah-dite) — a cave dweller; recluse
tuxedo (tuk-SEE-doe) — a man's dress jacket, usually black with satin and grosgrain lapels, worn for formal or semiformal occasions
ubiquitous (yoo-BIK-wi-tes) — being or seeming to be everywhere at the same time; omnipresent
ululate (UL-ya-late) — to howl, wail, or lament loudly
Cats are not the only things that wail.
unctuous (UNGK-choo-es) — 1. characterized by affected, exaggerated, or insincere earnestness. 2. having the quality or characteristics of oil or ointment; slippery. 3. containing or composed of oil or fat. 4. abundant in organic materials; soft and rich
It's slick, oily (like a used car salesman).
usurp (yoo-SURP) — 1. to seize and hold (the power or rights of another, for example) by force and without legal authority. 2. to take over or occupy without right
undulation (un-jah-LAY-shen) — movement in waves; a wavy, curving form or outline
uxorious (uk-SOR-ee-es) — excessively fond or submissive to one's wife
valedictorian (val-i-dik-TOR-ee-en) — the student with the highest academic rank in a class who delivers the valedictory at graduation.
It's so...mysterious. Kind of majestic, like a name in ye olden days.
valetudinarian (val-i-tood-en-AR-ee-en) — a sickly or weak person, especially one who is constantly and morbidly concerned with his or her health
I have not yet found a doctor who can define the word.
valley (VAL-ee) — 1. an elongated lowland between ranges of mountains, hills, or other uplands, often having a river or stream running along the bottom. 2. an extensive area of land drained or irrigated by a river system. 3. a depression or hollow resembling or suggesting a valley, as the point at which the two slopes of a roof meet
A sweet word, one that hints of greenness, beauty, and rest.
vertigo (VUR-ti-go) — 1. the sensation of dizziness; an instance of such a sensation. 2. a confused, disoriented state of mind
vespers (VES-purs) — 1. the sixth of the seven canonical hours; a worship service held in the late afternoon or evening in many Western Christian churches; the time of day appointed for this service. 2. evensong. 3. a service held on Sundays or holy days that includes the office of vespers.
The sound is smooth and soft. I try to put into words what a word means but find myself sorely lacking. Suffice it to say that I love this word.
virago (vi-RA-go) — A loud-voiced, ill-tempered, scolding woman
What a fantastic insult!
vitiate (VISH-ee-ate) — 1. to reduce the value or impair the quality of. 2. to corrupt morally; debase. 3. to make ineffective; invalidate
voluptuous (vah-LUP-choo-es) — 1. giving, characterized by, or suggesting ample, unrestrained pleasure to the senses. 2. devoted to or indulging in sensual pleasures; directed toward or anticipating sensual pleasure; arising from or contributing to the satisfaction of sensuous or sensual desires
volatile (VOL-ah-til) — 1.evaporating readily at normal temperatures and pressures. 2. tending to vary often or widely, as in price. 3. inconstant; fickle. 4. lighthearted; flighty. 5. ephemeral; fleeting 6. tending to violence; explosive. 7. flying or capable of flying; volant
The combination of sounds is as exciting as the meaning of the word itself...like an explosion.
weanling (WEEN-ling) — a child or animal newly weaned
whimsical (HWIM-zi-kel) — 1. determined by, arising from, or marked by whim or caprice; unusual, playful, and fanciful. 2. erratic in behavior or degree of unpredictability
Just such a light, carefree word! Reminds me of lazy summer days
willow (WIL-oh) — any of various deciduous trees or shrubs of the genus Salix, having usually narrow leaves, unisexual flowers borne in catkins, and strong lightweight wood; the wood of any of these trees
I love this word because it follows seamlessly from "yesterday." I first heard the word from my daughter Kathy when when she was about 4 years old. In her mind the transition was a natural flow from "yesterday."
zaftig (ZAF-tig) — 1. full-bosomed. 2. having a full, shapely figure
zany (ZA-nee) — 1. one who plays the clown or fool in order to amuse others. 2. a comically wild or eccentric person. 3. a secondary stock character in old comedies who mimicked his master. 4. a professional buffoon; clown. 5. a silly person; simpleton. 6. a slavish attendant or follower
Zeitgeist (ZIT-gist) — the spirit of the time; the taste and outlook characteristic of a period or generation
zephyr (ZEF-er) — the west wind; a gentle breeze; something that is airy or insubstantial
segue (which obviously belongs in the Worst Words list)
drismal (occasionally useful but hardly worthy of the "Best" designation)
food (among the starving, perhaps so; otherwise, no)
leet (slang for "good" or "great," apparently, and idiotic, certainly)
procrastinate (which has nothing whatever, neither meaning nor music, to recommend it — only a procrastinator could love procrastinate)
C.H.O.G.M. ("Commonwealth Heads Of Government Meeting" or CHO-gum. "I know, it's an acronym, but say it. Go on, it's the most fun word to say. I nearly named my first born CHOGM. CHOGM, CHOGM, CHOGM")
constantinople (proper names are no more welcome than acronyms, "cool to say" though Constantinople may be)
cuntiferous (swear words and scatology belong in a Worst of the Worst Words list; only people as offensive, as humorless, as this word would ever use it)
diarrhea (or "diharrea," as the nominator spells it, does not "sound pretty")
and/or (whether you believe this expression is useful or distasteful, in no circumstances is it a Best Word)
putz and schmuck (derivations aside, both words are insulting, mean-spirited, and slangy)
floccinaucinihilipilification (though, as its nominator says, this is supposedly the longest word in the English language, it has nothing else — scarcely even its length — to support its being a Best Word)
fracas (too dreadfully common to be justly regarded as a Best Word)
cafeteria (no one who has eaten in a cafeteria could possibly consider this a Best Word)
metamorphis (metamorphosis is certainly a good word, perhaps even a Best Word, but metamorphis, as the nominator spells it, is not)
chocolate (taste, some people have yet to learn, differs from sound or sense)
freal ("meaning, 'for real'; it sounds strange, but I like it," the nominator strangely writes)
— deviating from the proper course
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