Editorial Help Desk

Word of the Month

One Word, Two Meanings
A word in the English language can have two different definitions. One such word is decadent (adjective).

Definitions

1. Luxurious and Indulgent: opulent, lavish, extravagant. Characterized by richness (rich food) and/or luxury (extreme comfort or lifestyle).
         Example: "A rich, decadent chocolate cake."
2. Moral Decay or Decline: degenerate, corrupt, depraved. Present when there is moral, social, or artistic decay or decline, often through excessive indulgence in pleasure or luxury.
         Example: The pastor warned that the city’s decadent indulgences would destroy the community’s moral values.

Tip of the Month

Word Usage

Similar Words, Different Meanings
Ingenious refers to what is intelligent, clever, and original.
      Example: The mechanic created an ingenious workaround using a paperclip and duct tape to temporarily fix the engine so we could get home safely.

Ingenuous describes what is candid, sincere, and naïve.
      Example: It was ingenuous of Peter to believe that the salesman was giving him a truly great deal on the sports car.

As always, when in doubt, check it out! Contact the Editorial Help Desk for help (Donna_M_MarksPleasant@mcpsmd.org).