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

Episode: Fiduciary
Date: January 27, 2026
Host: Peter Sokolowski (Merriam-Webster)

Overview

This episode of Merriam-Webster’s Word of the Day dives into the meaning, usage, and origins of the word “fiduciary.” Host Peter Sokolowski gives listeners an accessible, brief tour of the term, highlighting how “fiduciary” is used both as an adjective and a noun, with special emphasis on its roots in trust-based relationships and its etymological background.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Definition & Pronunciation

• Fiduciary is presented as a formal word, pronounced fə-ˈd(y)ü-shē-ˌer-ē or fə-ˈd(y)ü-shə-ˌer-ī, and spelled F-I-D-U-C-I-A-R-Y.

  • [00:27] “Today’s word is fiduciary.”
  • [00:29] “Also pronounced fiduciary and spelled F I D U C I A R y.”

• As an adjective, "fiduciary" pertains to trust, specifically a situation where one person places confidence in another, usually involving professional or financial matters.

  • [00:36] “Fiduciary is an adjective. It's a formal word describing something relating to or involving trust, such as the trust between a customer and a professional.”

Example Usage

• The episode provides a real-world example from American Banker:
  • [00:48] “Banks and brokerage firms hold a fiduciary responsibility to protect their customers, including from scams.”

Broader Application of the Term

• While “fiduciary” often refers to financial relationships, its meaning isn’t limited to money. It encompasses any relationship based on justifiable trust.
  • [00:58] “Fiduciary relationships are often of the financial variety, but the word fiduciary does not in and of itself suggest pecuniary or money-related matters.”
  • [01:16] “Rather, fiduciary applies to any situation in which one person justifiably places confidence and trust in someone else and seeks that person's help or advice in some matter