Podcast Summary: Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day – "Exculpate"

Podcast Information

• Title: Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day
• Host: Peter Sokolowski (Merriam-Webster)
• Episode Title: Exculpate
• Release Date: May 6, 2025
• Description: A free daily dose of word power from Merriam-Webster's experts.

Introduction

In the May 6th episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day, host Peter Sokolowski delves into the meaning, usage, and nuances of the word "exculpate." This episode aims to enrich listeners' vocabulary by exploring not just the definition but also the contextual applications of the term, enhancing both understanding and usage in everyday language.

Defining "Exculpate"

At the core of the episode, Sokolowski introduces "exculpate" as the featured word. He begins by clarifying its spelling and grammatical function:

"Today’s word is exculpate. Spelled E-X-C-U-L-P-A-T-E. Exculpate is a verb. To exculpate someone is to prove that they are not guilty of doing something wrong."
[00:41]

This clear definition sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the word's application and relevance in various contexts.

Usage Example

To illustrate "exculpate" in action, Sokolowski references a sentence from Arthur C. Brooks published in The Atlantic:

"Research shows that social media use is associated with greater narcissism as well as depression and anxiety. But it is too easy to exculpate ourselves as a society by pointing to technology and trends we can scarcely control. And young adults may not be in a position to address their avoidant behavior. The rest of us can help."
— Arthur C. Brooks, The Atlantic [00:51]

This example highlights how "exculpate" is used in a contemporary setting, emphasizing the act of absolving oneself or society from blame by externalizing responsibility.

Exploring Related Terms

Sokolowski further enriches the listener's understanding by connecting "exculpate" to related terms derived from the Latin noun "culpa," meaning blame or guilt. He discusses two pertinent terms:

1. Culpable:

   "Culpable is used to describe someone deserving of condemnation or blame."
   [01:30]

2. Mea Culpa:

   "Mea culpa, which translates directly as 'through my fault,' refers to an acknowledgment of personal fault or error that is more formal than, well, 'my bad.'"
   [01:45]

By juxtaposing these terms, Sokolowski provides a comprehensive view of the semantic family surrounding "exculpate," aiding listeners in distinguishing between expressing blame and clearing it.

Conclusion

Wrapping up the episode, Sokolowski reinforces the day's learning:

"With your word of the day, I'm Peter Sokolowski."
[02:00]

He encourages listeners to incorporate "exculpate" into their vocabulary, particularly in formal writing and discussions where nuanced expression of guilt and absolution is necessary.

Additional Resources

Listeners are invited to explore more definitions, engage in wordplay, and stay updated with trending word lookups by visiting merriam-webster.com.

This episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day serves as an insightful guide to expanding one's lexical repertoire, demonstrating the practical application of "exculpate" and its related terms in both written and spoken English.