merriam webster word of the day

On 21 September 2026, Merriam-Webster featured the word "ephemeral" as its Word of the Day. The dictionary defines the term as something lasting for a very short time, often used to describe fleeting moments, transient trends, or things that exist only briefly in nature. The entry provides a comprehensive etymological breakdown, noting that the word traces its roots back to the Greek word "ephēmeros," meaning "lasting only a day." The feature includes illustrative examples of how to use the word in contemporary contexts, such as describing the ephemeral nature of digital content or the short-lived beauty of certain seasonal flowers. By highlighting this term, Merriam-Webster continues its long-standing tradition of promoting linguistic precision and vocabulary expansion for its global audience. The daily feature serves as a resource for students, writers, and language enthusiasts looking to refine their communication skills. This specific selection reflects the dictionary's ongoing commitment to curating words that bridge historical linguistic roots with modern-day usage, ensuring that users remain engaged with the nuances of the English language on a daily basis.