Word O’ Day

My sister’s professor says “basically” too much.  He shouldn’t do that, but that’s neither here nor there. Well, I guess it’s technically there. Right. Regardless, today’s WOD is both here and there: Contumely. 

Contumely is a noun from Old French, pronounced one of three ways: kon-too-muh-lee, kuhn-too-muh-lee, or for you rebels out there, kon-tuhm-lee.  It means an insulting, insolent or otherwise reproachful act, expression, or treatment, often arising from arrogance or ignorance.

The Sound of Usage:  Henrietta’s open disregard for the traditions of the church was widely perceived as impudent contumely, but it left a very different impression on Ronald, further endearing her to his ever more obstreperous persona.

Enjoy that one.  It’s a gem.

-Eerrrric

And We’re Back,

For those of you who read this (I cherish your dedication), I apologize for my lack of updates for the past several weeks. I had been in Columbus, OH with nary a free moment to blog, or really do anything except work my ass off for President-elect Obama. I feel honored to have worked for his campaign and to have participated in something which has truly made me proud to be an American.

Moving on from my personal achievement, albeit a considerable one, today’s Word O’ Day reflects my exuberance at what has occurred:  Wassail.

President Wordbama: As the dawn approached, countless jubilant compatriots caroused ceaselessly as the joyous wassail conveyed the magnitude of this truly monumental moment to the rest of the world.