Word of the Day

A mascot is more than a costumed character — it's a symbol meant to embody the spirit, luck, or identity of a group. Whether it's a lion prowling the sidelines or a lucky trinket hanging from a rearview mirror, a mascot gives form to shared pride and purpose.

A brumal day might bring crisp air, frost, or short daylight hours. In fact, the word comes from a Latin term that originally meant "winter solstice," the shortest day of the year. When things feel brumal, it's a perfect excuse to curl up with a good book and relax indoors.

When something is said sotto voce, it's spoken quietly. It's the kind of murmur meant for just a few ears, and it can soften a remark or make a moment feel more personal. Whenever something is shared sotto voce, you can assume it isn't meant for the whole room.

Farrago refers to a chaotic mixture of components — sometimes lively, sometimes baffling. It can describe anything from a jumbled argument to a meal of mismatched leftovers. When the pieces don't quite fit together, you might be looking at a farrago, for better or worse.

Jollification is a delightful word for joyful celebration. Its irresistibly bouncy rhythm suits everything from spontaneous dance parties to holiday cheer. For all your merrymaking needs, try a bit of jollification.