Parvenu is a noun that refers to an unknown person who has become rich and famous.

The Latin word pervenire (per ven EAR ay) means ‘to reach.’ Entering the language in the early 19th century, the word has come to mean someone of obscure origin who has gained wealth or influence. The word is often used in a derogatory manner.

My dad doesn’t do much on social media because he has no desire to become this year’s parvenu. Using the media for instant fame has never held any interest for him.

Fountainhead is a noun that refers to the origin of something.

After entering the English language in the 16th century, our word of the day came to refer to the original source of a river. More recently it’s come to be used metaphorically, as in: Chuck’s firing was the fountainhead of our movement. When we saw him being unfairly dismissed, we realized something had to be done.

Numismatic is an adjective that means monetary or related to currency.

The Greek word nomisma (NO meese ma) means ‘coin.’ Our word of the day describes any kind of currency or medals or it may describe currency in general. For example:

As much as I enjoyed getting a free chicken for my labor while working in a Guatemalan village, I was hoping my payment would be numismatic. A chicken may be great, but you can’t use it in a grocery store the same way you can use fifty dollars.

Bellwether is a noun that refers to an indicator or predictor of something.

Coming from Middle English, our word of the day began as a term for a sheep that lead the flock. More recently it’s used to refer to something that predicts a trend or new direction.

Example: I hope my son’s funky mustache isn’t a bellwether of trends in facial hair. As someone who survived the 70s, I wouldn’t like to see any of those mustaches came back into fashion.

Ne plus ultra is a noun that refers to the highest point attainable.

Our word of the day comes directly from a Latin phrase that translates to ‘not further beyond.’ It basically indicates the ultimate or best of something. Example:

Ralph began his music career as a mediocre guitarist, but after years of hard work and study, he became the ne plus ultra of rock guitarists.

Download the Volley.FM app for more short daily shows!

Download the Volley.FM app for more short daily shows!

Download the Volley.FM app for more short daily shows!

Download the Volley.FM app for more short daily shows!

Download the Volley.FM app for more short daily shows!