Learn more about how a cut can "smart," why a stroll may be "constitutional," and other little-used definitions of common words.
Receiving too many emails? I would like less mail
Word smarts wordmark

Editors' choice

Old Used Dictionary Book
Vocabulary Star divider 6 MIN READ Star divider
Heart Icon 7 LIKES

Surprising Original Definitions of Common Words

Learn more about how a cut can "smart," why a stroll may be "constitutional," and other little-used definitions of common words.

Continue reading

Right arrow

Advertisers help keep Word Smarts free

Mea culpa Latin phrase
Idioms Star divider 4 MIN READ Star divider
Heart Icon 45 LIKES

Carpe Diem With These Everyday Latin Phrases

We could go on ad infinitum (forever) about the influence of Latin on the English-speaking world, but instead, let's learn the roots of the most common Latin phrases we use today.

Continue reading

Right arrow
vintage opium pipe
Idioms Star divider 2 MIN READ Star divider
Heart Icon 10 LIKES

Why Is It Called a Pipe Dream?

This term has roots in a centuries-old illicit practice, but today it has a wishful connotation that can be hard to let go.

Continue reading

Right arrow
Writing Hello word Nihao in Chinese characters
Language Star divider 2 MIN READ Star divider
Heart Icon 33 LIKES

What's the Most Difficult Language To Learn?

Renowned for its complexity, Mandarin Chinese challenges English speakers more than any other foreign language.

Continue reading

Right arrow

Advertisers help keep Word Smarts free

Girl blowing the seeds from a dandelion
Grammar Star divider 2 MIN READ Star divider
Heart Icon 11 LIKES

Is "I Wish I Were" or "I Wish I Was" Correct?

When wishing upon a star, is it "I wish I were" or "I wish I was"? This tricky conundrum comes down to the subjunctive mood, and it's pretty easy to figure out when you understand the grammar rule behind it.

Continue reading

Right arrow

Advertisers help keep Word Smarts free

A World of Words

Subscribe

Powered by Optimism
1550 Larimer Street, Suite 431, Denver, CO 80202
Contact Us Privacy Policy Terms of Use Do Not Sell My Information