Every day, we'll explore a new word that enhances our vocabulary and livens up our discussions. Ready to enrich your word bank? Let’s get started! Today's word is Apricity.
Meaning
Also Read
'Apricity' refers to the warmth of the sun, especially the pleasant warmth felt during the winter months when the sun breaks through the cold, crisp air. It captures the specific and comforting sensation of feeling the sun’s rays on your skin during a cold day.
Pronunciation
a.pris.i.tee
Origin and etymology
The word 'apricity' comes from the Latin word 'apricus,' meaning 'sunny' or 'exposed to the sun.' The Latin root is derived from 'aperire,' meaning 'to open,' referencing how the sun's warmth 'opens' the coldness of winter, bringing a comforting sense of heat and light.
- Latin root: 'Apricus' -- meaning 'sunny,' related to 'aperire,' meaning 'to open.'
- Old English: The term entered English in the 1600s, but remained rare and is now considered an archaic or poetic term.
History and usage
'Apricity' is an old-fashioned and rarely used word that emerged in English around the 16th century, though it wasn’t widely adopted into everyday conversation. The term is particularly valued by those who appreciate the richness of the English language and enjoy using rare or poetic words.
The word was originally used to express the feeling associated with winter sunlight. It described the phenomenon of feeling warmth on a cold day -- a comforting sensation that many experience when exposed to direct sunlight on a crisp winter afternoon. The word frequently appeared in earlier English texts, particularly in literature and poetry, evoking a sense of nostalgia or appreciation for the gentler aspects of winter.
Example sentence
"On the chilly winter afternoon, she sat by the window, basking in the soft apricity of the low sun."
Examples from books and articles
“These humicubations, the nocturnal irrorations, and the dankishness of the atmosphere, generated by a want of apricity, were extremely febrifacient.”
— Lorenzo Altisonant (aka Samuel Klinefelter Hoshour), Letters to Squire Pedant, 1856“Apricity is more permanent, long-lasting, and deeper. It doesn’t rely on a fickle or weak source of warmth, but the eternal, powerful sun.”
— The Johns Hopkins News-Letter, 28 December 2024
Synonyms
- Sunshine
- Solar warmth
- Sunlit warmth
- Sunbeam
- Solar glow
- Hibernal warmth
That’s all for today’s 'word of the day.' Hope you find this article helpful in enhancing your vocabulary. Stay connected for more vocabulary-building content!
Published: 03 Jan 2025, 07:00 am IST
Related Topics
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Disclaimer: Kindly avoid objectionable, derogatory, unlawful and lewd comments, while responding to reports. Such comments are punishable under cyber laws. Please keep away from personal attacks. The opinions expressed here are the personal opinions of readers and not that of Mathrubhumi.