Word of the Day — August 30, 2026

austerity

/au-STER-it-y/nounPush me

Definition

Extreme self-discipline and giving up luxuries, often by choice or necessity.

the trait of great self-denial (especially refraining from worldly pleasures)

Memory Hook

Think of a monk in a bare monastery cell—no frills, no fun, just austere living. 'Austerity' = 'austere' + 'city' (a whole city living that way).