specious /ˈspiːʃəs/ adjective Meaning Superficially plausible, but actually wrong Seeming to be right or true, but actually incorrect Etymology Latin species > speciosus (fair) > specious (beautiful) Estimated First Use Late 1400s Example The impossible […]

Axiom /ˈaksɪəm/ noun Meaning A statement or proposition regarded as established, accepted, or self-evidently true Etymology Greek. Axios “worthy” Estimated First Use c. 1600 ExampleS It has long been an axiom of mine that the […]

Promulgate /ˈprɒm(ə)lɡeɪt/ verb Meaning Promote or make widely known; an idea or cause Etymology Latin. promulgat. promulgare. “exposed to public view” Estimated First Use c. 1600 Example The attempt to discover and promulgate the truth […]

Diffidence /ˈdɪfɪd(ə)ns/ noun Meaning Shyness or modesty, resulting from a lack of confidence Etymology Latin. Diffidentia, Diffidere. “mistrust, distrust, want of confidence” “to mistrust, lack of confidence” Estimated First Use c. 1400 Example The youth sat […]

Capricious /kəˈprɪʃəs/ adjective Meaning Given to sudden and unaccountable changes of mood or behaviour. / Changing according to no discernible rules; unpredictable. Origin Italian. capricieux/capriccioso > capricious Etymology humorous Estimated First Use 1590s