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

Episode Release Date: May 4, 2025
Host: Peter Sokolowski

Introduction

In the May 4th episode of Merriam-Webster's "Word of the Day," host Peter Sokolowski delves into the nuanced adjective "risible." This episode provides listeners with an in-depth exploration of the word's meaning, usage, etymology, and related terms, enriching their vocabulary and understanding of formal language.

Defining "Risible"

At the core of the episode, Sokolowski defines "risible" as follows:

“Risible is an adjective. It's a formal word used disapprovingly to describe things that deserve to be mocked or laughed at because they are absurd or unreasonable.”
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This definition positions "risible" as a term with a critical edge, often applied to situations or arguments that provoke not just laughter but also scorn or derision.

Usage in Context

To illustrate the application of "risible," Sokolowski presents a sentence sourced from The New York Times:

“Smart watches and smartphones are banned in my children's schools during the school day, which I'm very happy about. I find any argument for allowing these devices in the classroom to be risible.”
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This example highlights how "risible" can be employed to express strong disapproval of a particular viewpoint, emphasizing its capacity to convey both amusement and contempt.

Etymology and Linguistic Roots

Sokolowski takes listeners on an etymological journey, tracing "risible" and its related terms back to the Latin verb ridere, meaning "to laugh." He explains:

“Risible, ridiculous, derision, and risorious all come from the Latin verb ridere, meaning to laugh. This etymology helps make the meaning of the word risible clear.”
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Understanding this linguistic lineage clarifies how "risible" not only pertains to causing laughter but also carries connotations of mockery and scorn.

Related Terms and Synonyms

Expanding on the word's relatives, Sokolowski discusses synonyms and related terms that share the root and similar meanings:

“Something is described as risible, such as saying cheese out loud to yourself while looking at your phone or computer when it arouses or provokes laughter. But just as its synonym, laughable often describes things deserving not just of laughter but of eye rolling scorn, risible is frequently applied to that which merits both sneer and chortle, scoff and guffaw.”
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By comparing "risible" with "laughable," he underscores the subtle differences and overlaps between these descriptors, enhancing the listener's ability to choose the most appropriate term based on context.

Practical Application and Reflection

Towards the end of the episode, Sokolowski encourages listeners to engage with the word actively:

“Say cheese. Now say thank you to the risorious muscles near the corners of your mouth for helping you smile. You might find this exercise a bit ridiculous, risible even, but we're here to explain that there is no need for derision.”
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This interactive segment not only reinforces the meaning of "risible" but also invites listeners to reflect on their own use of language, promoting a deeper connection with the word.

Conclusion

Peter Sokolowski wraps up the episode by reiterating the intricate nature of words:

“Words are funny like that with your Word of the Day. I'm Peter Sokolowski.”
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This closing remark serves as a reminder of the playful and multifaceted aspects of language, encouraging continual exploration and appreciation of vocabulary.

Additional Resources

For those interested in further exploring definitions, wordplay, and trending word lookups, listeners are directed to visit Merriam-Webster's website.

This comprehensive examination of "risible" not only enhances listeners' lexical repertoire but also deepens their appreciation for the subtle shades of meaning that words can convey. Whether used to describe an absurd argument or a laugh-inducing scenario, "risible" stands out as a term that encapsulates both humor and critique.