Learn a Word Daily — Desultory
Today’s word is "Desultory": Lacking a plan, purpose, or enthusiasm.
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Word of the Day · February 8, 2026
Desultory
DES-uhl-tor-ee · adjective
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Definition
Lacking a plan, purpose, or enthusiasm; moving from one thing to another without focus.
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Origin & Etymology
From Latin desultorius, meaning “leaping about,” from desultor (“a leaper”).
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Nuance
Desultory suggests drifting — not laziness exactly, but a lack of direction or sustained focus.
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Usage
“Their conversation was desultory, jumping from topic to topic without ever settling.”
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Fun Fact
The root idea of desultory is literally “jumping around,” which perfectly matches how the word feels in use.
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