Merriam-Webster’s Word of the Day — Laudable

April 7, 2026

Episode Overview

The focus of this episode is the word “laudable,” exploring its definition, proper usage, etymology, and how it differs from a closely related term. The host, Peter Sokolowski, delivers a concise and engaging look into the meaning and nuance of “laudable,” designed to enrich your vocabulary and understanding of praise-worthy actions.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Definition and Usage

• Laudable is spelled L A U D A B L E and is an adjective.
• The word is described as “somewhat formal” and is used for something worthy of praise or “commendable.”
• Example sentence provided:

  “Fair and equal access to higher education, regardless of socioeconomic status or geographical location, is a laudable aim.”
  (01:00)

2. Etymology

• Laudable traces back to the Latin laud or laus, meaning “praise.”
• Related word: “Laudatory,” which shares the same root.

3. Nuance: Laudable vs. Laudatory (01:20)

• Laudable means deserving praise and is generally used for things people try to do or achieve (goals, aims, efforts).

  “It’s typically used to describe things people try to do or achieve, as in a laudable goal or a laudable aim, or the work they expend to do so, as in laudable efforts.”
  *— Peter Sokolowski (01:30)

• Laudatory means giving praise or “expressing praise,” commonly used for favorable responses such as reviews, remarks, or media coverage.

  “Laudatory means giving praise or expressing praise. It’s almost always used to describe a favorable response to something, as in laudatory remarks and laudatory media coverage.”
  *— Peter Sokolowski (01:47)

4. Memorable Moments

• The host makes the theme fun by personifying the word:

  “Let’s have a hearty round of applause for the word laudable, one that never fails to celebrate the positive.”
  *— Peter Sokolowski (00:53)

Timestamps for Important Segments

• [00:42] — Introduction to “laudable,” spelling, and initial definition.
• [01:00] — Example usage in a sentence.
• [01:20] — Etymology: connection to Latin, introduction of “laudatory.”
• [01:30] — Explanation of laudable vs. laudatory.
• [01:47] — Practical examples of “laudatory.”
• [02:06] — Encouragement to continue learning via Merriam-Webster.com.

Notable Quotes

• On the word’s spirit:

  “Let’s have a hearty round of applause for the word laudable, one that never fails to celebrate the positive.”
  — Peter Sokolowski [00:53]

• On usage distinction:

  “Laudable means deserving praise or praiseworthy. It’s typically used to describe things people try to do or achieve, as in a laudable goal or a laudable aim, or the work they expend to do so, as in laudable efforts.”
  — Peter Sokolowski [01:30]

• On related terms:

  “Laudatory means giving praise or expressing praise. It’s almost always used to describe a favorable response to something, as in laudatory remarks and laudatory media coverage.”
  — Peter Sokolowski [01:47]

Summary

This engaging micro-episode dives into “laudable,” outlining its praised-filled definition, etymological roots, and practical distinctions from “laudatory.” The thorough yet accessible explanation ensures listeners walk away recognizing laudable opportunities in their own words and deeds.