Podcast Summary: Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day – "Charisma"
Date: December 30, 2025
Host: Peter Sokolowski
Podcast: Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day
Episode: Charisma
Episode Overview
In this episode, Peter Sokolowski introduces and explores the word "charisma" as the Word of the Day. He examines its definition, provides historical and etymological context, offers usage examples, and discusses its evolution in meaning from spiritual to social domains.
Key Discussion Points & Insights
1. Definition and Contemporary Usage
- Definition: Charisma is a noun that refers to a special magnetic charm or appeal causing people to feel attracted and excited by someone.
- Modern Usage: Today, "charisma" generally describes a captivating quality that draws admiration, particularly in leaders or public figures.
"A person with charisma is captivating and often admired." — Peter Sokolowski [00:21]
2. Example Sentence
- From Variety:
"Sports and showbiz have gone hand in hand since newsreels in the 1920s showcased the skills and charisma of Babe Ruth." [00:30]
3. Etymology and Historical Background
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Root Word: Greek "charisma," meaning "favor" or "gift."
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Origins: Derived from the verb "charysasthai" ("to favor") and from the noun "charis," meaning "grace."
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Original Usage:
"Charisma was originally used in Christian contexts to refer to a gift or power bestowed upon an individual by the Holy Spirit for the good of the Church, a sense that is now very rare." — Peter Sokolowski [00:45]
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The sense of spiritual endowment has largely faded from everyday usage.
4. Modern Contexts
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Shift in Meaning:
"These days, we use the word to refer to social rather than divine grace." — Peter Sokolowski [01:02]
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Examples in Everyday Life:
- "A leader with charisma may easily gain popular support."
- "A job applicant with charisma may shine." [01:08]
Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments
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On Personal Magnetism:
"A person with charisma is captivating and often admired." — Peter Sokolowski [00:21]
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On Historical Relevance:
"Sports and showbiz have gone hand in hand since newsreels in the 1920s showcased the skills and charisma of Babe Ruth." — from Variety, quoted by Peter Sokolowski [00:30]
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On Changing Meaning:
"These days, we use the word to refer to social rather than divine grace." — Peter Sokolowski [01:02]
Timestamps for Important Segments
- 00:00 — Introduction and spelling of "charisma"
- 00:21 — Definition and qualities associated with charisma
- 00:30 — Example usage in a sentence (Babe Ruth)
- 00:37 — Etymology and roots of the word
- 00:45 — Charisma’s religious origins
- 01:02 — Modern sense of the word
- 01:08 — Everyday examples of contemporary usage
Tone & Language
Peter Sokolowski's language is educational, accessible, and engaging, aiming to deepen listeners' vocabulary while connecting the word's history to its modern use.
Summary
This concise episode provides a well-rounded introduction to "charisma," blending its definition, captivating usage examples, and a mini-lesson in etymology. Sokolowski ties in historical context to show how the word has evolved from the divine to the everyday, making it memorable for listeners and learners alike.