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

Episode Details

• Title: Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day
• Host: Merriam-Webster
• Episode Title: Sumptuous
• Release Date: June 26, 2025
• Description: A free daily dose of word power from Merriam-Webster's experts.

Introduction to "Sumptuous" In the June 26, 2025 episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day, host Peter Sokolowski introduces the word sumptuous (pronounced S U M P T U O U S). He describes it as an adjective used to characterize things that are exceptionally expensive, rich, luxurious, or magnificent.

Definition and Usage Peter begins by spelling out the word and providing its definition:

"Sumptuous is an adjective. It's used to describe things that are very expensive, rich, luxurious or magnificent." ([00:07])

To illustrate its usage, Peter cites a sentence from Forbes, highlighting elements of opulent living:

"With comfy living areas with bistro tables, sumptuous marble bathrooms, and large private lanais with sweeping views of the ocean, mountain or gardens, guests have ample room to spread out, relax, and really make themselves at home." ([00:07])

This example underscores how sumptuous conveys a sense of lavishness and comfort in living spaces.

Literary Reference and Contrast Transitioning to a more poetic context, Peter references a classic lyric to contrast the idea of luxury:

"Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens may be a few of your favorite things, but are they sumptuous? Alas, though the best things in life are often free." ([00:07])

This segment emphasizes that while some of life's pleasures are simple and free, sumptuous things typically involve significant expense.

Etymology and Historical Context Delving into the word's origins, Peter explains that sumptuous derives from the Latin word sumptus, meaning "expense":

"The word sumptuous is a child of the Latin word sumptus, meaning expense, and it typically describes things that can only be had at some significant expense." ([00:07])

He further elaborates on how a sumptuous lifestyle is associated more with conspicuous consumption:

"A sumptuous lifestyle, for example, is more likely to involve silver white bling than a silver white winter that melts into spring." ([00:07])

Peter also touches upon the related term sumptuary laws, which were historical regulations aimed at limiting extravagant expenditures and habits, particularly for moral or religious reasons:

"Sumptuary laws are largely historical regulations limiting extravagant expenditures and habits, especially on moral or religious grounds." ([00:07])

Clarifying Common Misconceptions Addressing potential confusion, Peter clarifies that sumptuous is not related to the word consume:

"The sump and consumption is coincidental. That word comes from consume, which has its roots in the Latin word sumire, meaning to take up or take." ([00:07])

This distinction helps listeners understand the unique lineage and meaning of sumptuous.

Conclusion and Call to Action Wrapping up the episode, Peter encourages listeners to engage further with Merriam-Webster’s resources:

"With your word of the day, I'm Peter Sokolowski. Visit Merriam Webster.com today for definitions, word play and trending word lookups." ([00:07])

Key Takeaways

• Sumptuous: An adjective describing something very expensive, rich, luxurious, or magnificent.
• Usage: Often applied to describe lavish lifestyles, luxurious items, or opulent settings.
• Etymology: Originates from the Latin sumptus ("expense"), highlighting the association with significant cost.
• Related Terms: Sumptuary laws historically limited extravagant spending for moral or religious reasons.
• Clarification: Not related to consume, which stems from a different Latin root.

This episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day provides a comprehensive exploration of the word sumptuous, offering listeners not only its definition and usage but also its historical background and related linguistic nuances.