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

Episode Release Date: May 22, 2025
Host: Peter Sokolowski

Introduction to "Voluble"

In the May 22nd episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day podcast, hosted by Peter Sokolowski, the featured word is "voluble." Pronounced V-O-L-U-B-L-E, voluble is an adjective used to describe someone who speaks a lot in a rapid and energetic manner. Sokolowski introduces the term succinctly:

“[00:41] Peter Sokolowski: Voluble is an adjective. Someone may be described as voluble if they are talking a lot in a rapid, energetic way.”

Usage in Context

To illustrate the meaning of voluble, the podcast provides examples from various sources, demonstrating the word's application in different contexts.

1. Literary Example:

   Sokolowski references an article from Variety to showcase a voluble personality:

   “[00:41] Peter Sokolowski: ...from Variety. 'The movie is built around an interview with the legendary 91-year-old actor, still vigorous and voluble, with a seize the day cornball glow to him.'”

   This example highlights an elderly actor who remains talkative and lively, embodying the essence of being voluble.

2. Historical Reference:

   The podcast also cites Emily Post's 1922 book, Etiquette in Society, In Business, In Politics, and at Home, to provide timeless advice regarding volubility:

   “[00:41] Peter Sokolowski: ...In a chapter called conversation from her 1922 book ... 'if one is a voluble chatterer, one can at least refrain from being a pest or bore, and the rule is merely to stop and think.'”

   Here, Post advises that while being voluble is natural, it's important to balance talkativeness to avoid being perceived negatively.

Etymology and Related Terms

Delving into the origins of voluble, Sokolowski traces its roots back to Latin:

“[00:41] Peter Sokolowski: Voluble traces back to the Latin verb vulvere, meaning to set in a circular course or to cause to roll. Another Vulvari descendant.”

Understanding the Latin origin provides deeper insight into the fluid and ongoing nature of voluble speech.

Additionally, Sokolowski draws a connection between voluble and the word volume to aid in memorization:

“[00:41] Peter Sokolowski: ...the word volume can also be a help in remembering voluble's meaning, not because someone described as voluble speaks at a loud volume per se, but because they have volumes to say.”

This analogy emphasizes that a voluble person has "volumes" of things to say, rather than speaking loudly.

Practical Application

To ensure listeners can fully grasp and utilize the word voluble, Sokolowski encourages visiting Merriam-Webster's website for additional resources:

“[00:41] Peter Sokolowski: I'm Peter Sokolowski. Visit Merriam Webster.com today for definitions, wordplay and trending word lookups.”

This call-to-action invites listeners to further explore the rich repository of words and their nuanced meanings.

Conclusion

The May 22nd episode of Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day provides a comprehensive exploration of the word voluble, offering clear definitions, contextual examples, etymological background, and practical tips for application. Through engaging discussions and illustrative quotes, Peter Sokolowski ensures that listeners gain a thorough understanding of what it means to be voluble and how to effectively incorporate the term into their vocabulary.