Word of the Day - 06/28/26
eclectic
/ɪ'klɛktɪk/(adj.): selecting or choosing from various sources
Her eclectic taste in art was evident in the mix of abstract and classical pieces in her home.
(adj.): not following any one system, as of philosophy, medicine, etc., but selecting and using what are considered the best elements of all systems
The philosopher developed an eclectic system, drawing ideas from various schools of thought rather than adhering to a single doctrine.
Word Origin
The word 'eclectic' originates from the Greek word *eklektikos*, meaning 'selective'. It is formed from the prefix *ek-* (meaning 'out of' or 'from') and the verb *legein* (meaning 'to choose' or 'to gather'). This Greek term was adopted into Latin as *eclecticus*, and from there it entered English. The core meaning reflects the act of choosing or selecting the best from various sources.
Words with similar Greek or Latin roots related to choosing or gathering include 'elect' (from Latin *eligere*, 'to choose out'), 'select' (from Latin *seligere*, 'to choose apart'), 'collect' (from Latin *colligere*, 'to gather together'), and 'lexicon' (from Greek *lexis*, meaning 'word', derived from *legein*).
As a reminder, here are all of the words from this week:
fecund inimical inimitable
eclectic
See if you can remember all of this week's words! Here is a sentence that includes all seven, followed by a version that simplifies them to help you remember:
The curator's eclectic collection, ranging from ancient chattel contracts to obscure pericope fragments, showcased his fecund imagination and inimitable talent for presenting items with a trenchant insight that removed any inimical preconceptions.The museum guide's diverse collection, ranging from old property documents to obscure text sections, showed his creative imagination and unique talent for presenting items with a keen insight that removed any damaging old ideas.