Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day: "Rescind" Release Date: July 11, 2025 | Host: Peter Sokolowski
Introduction
In the July 11, 2025 episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day, host Peter Sokolowski delves into the nuances of the word "rescind." This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for listeners to understand not only the definition but also the etymology and practical applications of the term.
Definition and Usage
Peter begins by introducing "rescind" as a verb, clearly spelling it out for the audience:
“[00:06] Peter Sokolowski: Today's word is rescind, spelled R-E-S-C-I-N-D. Rescind is a verb. To rescind something, such as a law, contract, or agreement, is to end it officially. Rescind can also mean to take back or to cancel.”
This definition sets the foundation for understanding how "rescind" operates within various contexts, emphasizing its role in formally terminating agreements or decisions.
Practical Example
To illustrate the practical application of "rescind," Peter provides a real-world example from a reputable source:
“[00:30] Peter Sokolowski: Here's the word used in a sentence from the LA Times: 'A state environmental oversight board voted unanimously to rescind a controversial proposal that would have permitted California municipal landfills to accept contaminated soil that is currently required to be dumped at sites specifically designated and approved for hazardous waste.'”
This example demonstrates the term's usage in governmental and environmental contexts, highlighting its significance in policy-making and regulatory decisions.
Etymology and Related Terms
Exploring the origins of "rescind," Peter traces its lineage back to Latin, providing depth to the audience's understanding:
“[01:00] Peter Sokolowski: The word rescind and the lesser-known words exsind and prescind all come from the Latin verb 'scindere,' which means to split or cleave or separate. Rescind was adapted from its Latin predecessor, 'rescindere,' in the 16th century, and prescind and exsind followed in the next century.”
He further distinguishes "rescind" from its Latin cousins:
“[01:30] Peter Sokolowski: Exsind means to cut off or to excise, and prescind means to withdraw one's attention. But of the three borrowings, only rescind established itself as a common English term.”
This exploration not only enriches the listener's vocabulary but also connects linguistic evolution to contemporary usage.
Contemporary Applications
Peter emphasizes the relevance of "rescind" in today's language landscape:
“[02:00] Peter Sokolowski: Today, rescind is most often heard in contexts having to do with the withdrawal of an offer, award or privilege, or with invalidation of a law or policy.”
By highlighting its prevalent use in legal, corporate, and governmental settings, Peter underscores the word's importance in formal communication and decision-making processes.
Conclusion
Wrapping up the episode, Peter encourages listeners to continue expanding their vocabulary:
“[02:30] Peter Sokolowski: With your word of the day, I'm Peter Sokolowski. Visit Merriam-Webster.com today for definitions, wordplay, and trending word lookups.”
This invitation fosters an engaging relationship between Merriam-Webster and its audience, promoting ongoing education and linguistic proficiency.
Summary
Peter Sokolowski's exploration of "rescind" in the July 11, 2025 episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day offers listeners a thorough understanding of the term's definition, practical usage, etymological roots, and contemporary significance. By providing clear examples and historical context, the episode not only defines "rescind" but also situates it within the broader tapestry of the English language, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their word power.
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