by Kevin Burton
In a rare misstep, the folks at Dictionary Scoop said we should try to impress people with the vocabulary words listed below.
The kind of people who would be impressed by something like that are not, let’s say, among my closest companions.
But let’s appreciate the words and use them, as any tool, when needed and appropriate.
1–Mumpsimus
Ever found yourself repeating a practice you don’t know where it comes from? Maybe you always take the same route to work, even though you know there is a quicker way. It’s like sticking to a habit despite being aware it’s a mistake .
If you recognize this situation, you may be committing a “mumpsimus.” This term describes not only a habit, notion, or idea that someone stubbornly sticks to despite knowing it’s wrong but also the person who behaves this way.
The word has a fascinating origin story. Legend has it that a preacher misread the word “sumpsimus” (“we have taken”) as “mumpsimus.” Even after being corrected, he kept using the word incorrectly.
2–Anecdoche
If you have a large family or many friends, this word will be very useful.
Many times, in gatherings of several people, the conversation can become a bit, shall we say, messy. It is the typical crowded dinner: everyone is shouting and talking over one another; a chaotic yet familiar scenario, right? Next time it happens, you can say, “Stop this anecdoche!” Everyone will probably stop talking, at least to find out what that word means.
“Anecdoche” captures that exact scenario. It’s a relatively new term, defined as a situation where many people are talking, but no one is listening or getting involved with each other’s anecdotes.
3–Munificent
We all have that one friend who loves to give gifts and do thoughtful things for others. If you can think of someone who fits this description, then you know someone truly “munificent.”
This adjective perfectly describes those who love to give and give, finding fulfillment in their generosity without necessarily expecting something in return.
The etymology of this word explains its nature very well: “munificent” comes from the Latin munificus, which blends munus (“gift” or “service”) with the suffix -ficus , meaning “making” or “doing.”
4–Succor
And if we talk about munificent people, we have to mention how these noble guys always spend their time offering “succor.” If you’re not familiar with that last word, let’s explore its meaning.
“Succor” is something you give or do for a person or a group of people who need it. It can be used as a synonym for “help,” “assistance,” or “support.”
5–Disingenuous
Let’s talk about another adjective. This one describes people who might not always be frank or sincere, or who have a way of presenting themselves that isn’t always honest.
If you’ve ever had a feeling that someone isn’t being entirely genuine with you, maybe that person is being “disingenuous.” This word also has roots in Latin. It derives from disingenuus, which means “not noble.”
In English, disingenuous was formed by adding the prefix dis- (meaning “not” or “opposite of”) to the word ingenuous, which describes someone who possesses “innocent or childlike simplicity and candidness”
6–Slugabed
Few things can compare to the pleasure of staying in your own warm bed, either to catch up on sleep or simply to enjoy the morning in peace and quiet.
But let’s be honest; as much as we’d like to, we can’t make a habit of it… Or can we? Well, that’s where the word “slugabed” comes into play, as defined by Merriam-Webster, for those who just can’t resist the temptation of staying in bed late.
7–Refulgence
If you want to captivate someone special, just look at the moon and, as a good poet, describe its “refulgence.”
This beautiful noun is a sophisticated way of referring to brilliance or shining quality. And it’s not limited to literal use, such as describing the sun, the moon, or a cityscape at night. You can also use it metaphorically to depict, for example, someone’s delightful smile or charismatic personality.
This noun also has Latin roots, originating from refulgentia (“reflection” or “shining back”), which in turn is derived from the Latin verb refulgere (to shine brightly).
8–Neophyte
Do you have an activity, sport, or hobby you’ve been wanting to try? Maybe you’re interested in taking a cooking class, learning to ski, or driving, but you’re a bit worried about being seen as a “neophyte.” If that’s the case, don’t worry! We’ve all been neophytes in different aspects of life, even when it comes to learning new words.
As Merriam-Webster points out, “neophyte” is a noun for someone “who is just starting out in a field of activity.” In other words, a novice.
This word can carry either a positive or a negative tone, depending on its context. In any case, if you use it, remember to be careful and not hurt someone’s feelings.
9–Swivet
Do you remember that first exam, that tough job interview, or that meeting that left you feeling stressed and nervous? If you often find yourself in such situations, next time, you can tell your boss you’re in a “swivet.”
“Swivet” is a noun that can be used as a synonym for panic, agitation, or aggravated nervousness. Shaky hands, belly aches, and cold sweats are just some of the uncomfortable symptoms often associated with this rare word.
10–Lachrymose
If you enjoy poetry, a good romantic movie, or just anything that brings tears to your eyes, then you might be a sensitive, melancholy soul that could be described as “lachrymose.”
That’s right, this is a fancy adjective that doesn’t just describe emotional people; it also points to what brings on those tears. You can tell your friend, for example, “Don’t watch that movie if you’re not in the mood to cry; it’s a real lachrymose drama!”
In its roots, we find Latin again. It derives from lacrima, a beautiful word meaning “tear.”
Page 7 