Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day: Adversity
Episode Release Date: April 16, 2025
Host: Peter Sokolowski
Introduction
In the April 16, 2025 episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day, host Peter Sokolowski introduces the word "adversity." Spelled as A-D-V-E-R-S-I-T-Y, adversity is categorized as a noun. This episode delves into the definition, contextual usage, and etymology of the word, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding to enhance their vocabulary.
Definition
Peter Sokolowski begins by defining adversity as follows:
"[Adversity] is a noun. It refers to a difficult situation or condition or to a state of serious or continued difficulty or misfortune."
[00:00]
This succinct definition sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the word's nuances and applications in everyday language.
Usage in Context
To illustrate the practical use of adversity, Sokolowski shares an insightful example from an article in Inside Higher Ed by Stephen Mintz:
"To foster self-reliance, colleges should focus on supports that empower students to face challenges. Instead of lowering demands to accommodate discomfort, institutions can create frameworks that help students cope, adapt, and ultimately thrive in the face of adversity."
[00:30]
This example emphasizes how understanding and confronting adversity can lead to personal growth and resilience, both in educational settings and beyond.
Etymology
Sokolowski takes listeners on a linguistic journey to uncover the roots of adversity:
"The word adversity traces back to the Latin verb advertere, meaning 'to turn toward.' It itself is a combination of the verb vertere, meaning 'to turn,' and the prefix ad, meaning 'to.' The past participle of advertere is adversus, meaning 'turned toward,' 'facing,' or 'opposed.' This evolved through several languages to become the Middle English word adversity, which encompassed meanings such as 'opposition,' 'hostility,' 'misfortune,' or 'hardship.'”
[01:00]
Understanding the Latin origins of adversity provides deeper insight into its current meaning, highlighting themes of confrontation and opposition inherent in the word.
Conclusion
Wrapping up the episode, Peter Sokolowski reiterates the significance of understanding words like adversity:
"The world, alas, is full of adversity of all kinds, from misfortune to outright calamity. While we, being humble lexicographers and not sagacious philosophers, cannot explain the source of such adversity, we can explain the source of the word adversity."
[01:30]
Sokolowski invites listeners to continue expanding their vocabulary and exploring the richness of the English language by visiting Merriam-Webster's website.
Final Remarks
Listeners are encouraged to visit Merriam-Webster.com for more definitions, engaging wordplay, and to keep up with trending word lookups. This episode not only enhances your vocabulary but also enriches your understanding of how words encapsulate complex human experiences.
Notable Quotes:
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Definition:
"Adversity is a noun. It refers to a difficult situation or condition or to a state of serious or continued difficulty or misfortune."
— Peter Sokolowski [00:00] -
Usage Example:
"To foster self-reliance, colleges should focus on supports that empower students to face challenges... thrive in the face of adversity."
— Stephen Mintz via Peter Sokolowski [00:30] -
Etymology:
"Adversity traces back to the Latin verb advertere, meaning to turn toward... to Middle English meaning opposition, hostility, misfortune, or hardship."
— Peter Sokolowski [01:00] -
Closing Reflection:
"The world is full of adversity of all kinds... we can explain the source of the word adversity."
— Peter Sokolowski [01:30]
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of the podcast episode, providing listeners with a clear and detailed understanding of the word adversity, its usage, and its historical roots.