…..I love words. I love them individually, on their own, out of context, just sitting there in my mind, waiting for the right moment to be given life – spoken or written. That’s why my interest was piqued when I came across this post entitled, “The 100 Most Beautiful Words in English.” They are listed here on Pinterest. I must admit it is a compelling list and most of them are quite beautiful. I was also surprised that there were 17 I did not know. Ailurophile – cat lover and Chatoyant – like a cat’s eye – I should have known these, given the years that I have been in the company of cats!!
Fugacious – fleeting – I am not likely to use, even though I now know its meaning, because I prefer, ephemeral and evanescent, words with a similar meaning. Fugacious sounds too much like fudge, which can be sticky and hang around a little too long. And although, Halcyon means carefree, the word itself is a little too stiff and proper to be completely without care.
Lagniappe – a special kind of gift – sounds a little over worked, when the word “talent” would suffice. The same could be said for Mondegreen – a slip of the ear and Palimpsest – a manuscript written over earlier ones.
There were, however, words that I knew but rarely, if ever used, such as, Susurrous – whispering or hissing. I think I could use this one a little more. Also Emollient – a softener and Dulcet – sweet – are words I rarely use, but should. The rest, barring a few exceptions, are words I use often and love. Labyrinthine – twisting – is currently my favourite, however, Diaphanous – filmy, Gossamer – thread like and Quintessential – essential – are right up there.
Finally, I can tell I am with a kindred soul when I find on their list the word, Tintinnabulation – tinkling. I have one, if not two posts dedicated to this word from the poem, The Bells.
Have a sumptuous day!