Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day: "Modicum"

Podcast Episode: modicum
Host: Peter Sokolowski
Release Date: May 8, 2025

Introduction

In the May 8th episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day, host Peter Sokolowski delves into the intriguing word "modicum". Aimed at enhancing listeners' vocabulary, the episode offers a comprehensive exploration of the word's meaning, usage, and origins, enriched with literary examples and linguistic insights.

Definition of "Modicum"

Peter Sokolowski begins by defining "modicum" as a noun pronounced "modicum" and spelled M-O-D-I-C-U-M. He emphasizes that it is a formal term meaning a small amount, often used in conjunction with abstract concepts.

"Modicum is a noun. It's a formal word that means a small amount."
— Peter Sokolowski [00:41]

Usage in Context

To illustrate the practical application of "modicum," Sokolowski shares a sentence from Mark Rowlands's work, "Dog: What Our Canine Companions Can Teach Us about Living a Good Life."

"Imagine, for example, that the gods decided to bestow upon Sisyphus a modicum of mercy. The rock, the hill, the never-ending pointless labor all remained non-negotiable as far as the gods were concerned."
— Peter Sokolowski [00:59]

This example highlights how "modicum" is effectively used to convey a slight or minimal degree of mercy, juxtaposed against the unchangeable aspects of Sisyphus's eternal task.

Applications of "Modicum"

Sokolowski expands on the versatility of "modicum," noting that while the English language is rich with synonyms for "a small amount" (such as "smidgen" or "soupçon"), "modicum" holds a unique position. He points out that it can describe both tangible items and, more frequently, abstract qualities.

"It wouldn't be wrong to say that the English language has more than a modicum of words referring to a small amount of something. It has oodles from smidgen to soupcon."
— Peter Sokolowski [01:55]

However, "modicum" is particularly adept at pairing with abstract nouns:

"While modicum can be applied to countable or physical things like words or salt, it is almost always applied instead to abstract concepts like respect, success, control, hope, dignity, or privacy."
— Peter Sokolowski [01:50]

This nuanced usage underscores "modicum's" suitability for conveying slight degrees of intangible attributes.

Etymology and Linguistic Connections

Delving into its origins, Sokolowski traces "modicum" back to the Latin "modus," meaning measure. This root is also the ancestor of several English words, demonstrating "modicum's" linguistic heritage.

"Modicum traces back to the Latin noun modus, meaning measure, which just so happens to be the ancestor of more than a modicum of English words, from moderate and modify to mold and commode."
— Peter Sokolowski [02:05]

This connection not only enriches the listener's understanding of "modicum" but also highlights the word's place within the broader tapestry of the English language.

Conclusion

Wrapping up the episode, Peter Sokolowski reinforces the significance of incorporating "modicum" into one's vocabulary. By providing clear definitions, contextual usage, literary examples, and etymological background, he equips listeners with a thorough comprehension of the word.

"With your word of the day, I'm Peter Sokolowski."
— Peter Sokolowski [02:11]

Notable Quotes

• "Modicum is a noun. It's a formal word that means a small amount."
  — Peter Sokolowski [00:41]

• "Imagine, for example, that the gods decided to bestow upon Sisyphus a modicum of mercy."
  — Peter Sokolowski [00:59]

• "It wouldn't be wrong to say that the English language has more than a modicum of words referring to a small amount of something."
  — Peter Sokolowski [01:55]

• "Modicum traces back to the Latin noun modus, meaning measure."
  — Peter Sokolowski [02:05]

Additional Resources

For more definitions, wordplay, and trending word lookups, listeners are encouraged to visit merriam-webster.com.

This detailed exploration of "modicum" not only clarifies its meaning and usage but also situates it within the rich landscape of the English language, making it a valuable addition to any vocabulary.