Six Words You Only Think You Know

Everyone’s had the experience of coming across an unknown word while reading, or stumbling through the pronunciation of a word that has been seen but never uttered. Some words mean just what you think they mean and sound just like you think they should, but others are wildly counterintuitive in meaning, spelling, or pronunciation. That’s part of what makes the English language so fun.

Here are just a few of those words for me:

Toothsome
Surprisingly enough, this means “attractive” or “delicious” and even specifically “sexually alluring.” So the next time you see this word, you shouldn’t just be picturing someone with a Cheshire cat grin.

Noisome
Contrary to what it sounds like, this word has more to do with the sense of smell than hearing. Think “malodorous.” It can also mean “noxious.” But unless they’re also stinky, it really isn’t the best word to describe the loud garage band next door.

Victuals
This is food, as in “We chowed down on some great victuals.” It’s more recognizable once you realize it’s pronounced “vittles.” Americans sometimes spell it that way also.

Segue
Fans of music, movies, and good conversation have probably heard this word at one time or another and have a general idea of its definition (to move smoothly from one subject to another, as well as specific meaning with regard to music transitions). However, the spelling is unexpected when you consider that it’s pronounced “segway.” Those personal transportation devices out there have made this one even more confusing.

Penultimate
Once I learned what this word really means, I began noticing how often it’s misused. It doesn’t mean “super ultimate.” It actually means “next to last.” It’s the penultimate word in this list of six.

Enervate
Some people use this word as though it means “energize,” but it’s the opposite of that. If you’re enervated, you’re feeling more exhausted than energetic.

Tell me about some of your favorite “Wow!” moments with words.