Master English one word at a time. World of Words provides a daily English word with its precise meaning, pronunciation, and practical usage examples to help you build a powerful vocabulary.
To hector is to nag or badger someone, often through multiple rounds of harassment. The word comes from Hector of Greek mythology, though its meaning flipped from heroism to intimidation after some London ruffians adopted the term as their own. No one likes being hectored, especially over something that could have been said plainly and respectfully.
Example: The supervisor was careful not to hector the employees about their minor mistakes.
A Cancer is all about nurturing and feeling deep emotions! Dive into the world of the crab and discover the perfect words to describe these intuitive people.
To whittle is to shape wood by carving off small pieces with a knife, usually in a slow, careful way. The word can metaphorically extend to reducing something bit by bit, as if trimming it down to its essentials. There's a steady rhythm to whittling, whether you're working with your hands or refining an idea.
Example: The quiet man sat on the porch to whittle a small bird figurine from a cedar block.
Have you ever heard of a helicopter parent? How about a lawnmower parent? We have all the words you need to talk about different parenting styles and how they've evolved over the years.
