Merriam-Webster’s Word of the Day: Candor (October 7, 2025)

Episode Overview

In this episode of Merriam-Webster’s Word of the Day, host Peter Sokolowski introduces and explores the noun “candor.” The episode delves into the word’s definition, usage in context, etymological roots, and historical development, all in Merriam-Webster’s signature concise and educational style. The focus is on understanding what “candor” means today and the path it traveled to form that meaning.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Definition and Contemporary Use

• Candor is defined as “the quality of being open, sincere, and honest.”
• The episode emphasizes that candor is valued for its connection to honesty and transparent communication.

2. Contextual Example

• The word is exemplified through a quote from Essence magazine, describing sports journalist Malika Andrews:
  • [00:17]: “That balance of composure and candor is exactly what's made her one of the most respected names in sports journalism.”
    • This illustrates how candor, combined with thoughtful composure, earns respect and trust.

3. Etymology and Related Words

• The host traces “candor” back to the Latin verb candere, meaning “to shine or glow.”
• Other English descendants of candere include:
  • Candle
  • Candid
  • Candidate
  • Candela (unit of luminous intensity)
  • Candescent (“glowing or dazzling from or as if from great heat”)
• [00:37]: “The Latin verb candere, meaning to shine or glow, has illuminated the English lexicon for centuries.”

4. Historical Evolution

• “Candor” entered the English language in the 14th century, initially referring to brightness, purity, or innocence.
• Over time, the meaning shifted to its current association with honest expression.
• [00:52]: “Its earliest uses referred to brightness or unstained purity and innocence. Today, you're most likely to encounter candor as a word for unquestionably honest expression.”

5. Encouragement to Learn More

• The episode closes with an invitation to visit Merriam-Webster’s website for further definitions, wordplay, and trending lookups.
  • [01:04] Peter Sokolowski: “Visit merriam-webster.com today for definitions, wordplay and trending word lookups.”

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• [00:17] Essence Context:
  “That balance of composure and candor is exactly what’s made her one of the most respected names in sports journalism.”
  (Contextualizes the word in contemporary usage.)

• [00:37] On Etymology:
  “The Latin verb candere, meaning to shine or glow, has illuminated the English lexicon for centuries.”
  (Connecting etymology to familiar English words.)

• [00:52] On Historical Meaning:
  “Its earliest uses referred to brightness or unstained purity and innocence. Today, you're most likely to encounter candor as a word for unquestionably honest expression.”
  (Tracing the evolution of the word’s meaning.)

Timeline of Important Segments

| Timestamp | Segment | |-----------|-----------------------------------------------------------| | 00:00 | Introduction and definition of “candor” | | 00:17 | Example usage (Malika Andrews/Essence quote) | | 00:29 | Etymological background (Latin candere) and related words| | 00:52 | Historical evolution of meaning | | 01:04 | Invitation to explore more at Merriam-Webster.com |

Tone & Delivery

Peter Sokolowski maintains an educational yet friendly and engaging tone, combining classical linguistic insight with modern relevance. The brief episode is ideal for word-lovers seeking both enrichment and practical vocabulary expansion.

For full details, daily word features, and deeper dives into language, visit merriam-webster.com.