Spicy

Definitions: (1) interesting or exciting <applies to individuality, manners, or mind>; (2) something or someone who enriches in a positive way; characterizes that which gives zest or interest to; (3) lively, spirited, piquant Dictum: Variety is the spice of life. — William Cowper (1731-1800) English poet Quote: To see two people that are battling to … Read more

Spellbinding

Definitions: (1) grippingly charming; fascinating; enchanting; (2) characterizes a speaker of compelling eloquence; captivating; (3) marks an act of surprising interest; riveting Music: “That Old Black Magic” {1942}That old black magic has me in its spell,That old black magic that you weave so well;Icy fingers up and down my spine,The same old witchcraft when your … Read more

Special

Definitions: (1) possessing extraordinary or uncommon characteristics; exceptional; unique; (2) particularly valued <a special friend>; a gem; (3) appropriate; proper    See also: Important Synonyms: distinctive, distinguished, individualistic Quotes:• Every day you are alive is a special occasion. Every minute, every breath, is a gift from God. — Mary Manin Morrissey (1949-) Co-founder Living Enrichment Center {1970-2004}• … Read more

Soulful

Definitions: (1) possessing positive qualities; ; great-souled; the embodiment of a quality <Brevity is the soul of wit.>; (2) full of or expressive of emotion or deep feeling <All were moved by the artist’s soulful rendition.>; (3) having spiritual or emotional warmth, power, or understanding Derivation: Latin, “mind, soul” Quotes:• If the head and the … Read more

Sound

Definitions: (1) founded on truth; strong; valid; reliable; sensible <sound advice>; (2) morally solid; honest; honorable; upright; virtuous; trustworthy <The Church prides itself on sound principles.>; (3) firm; safe; stable; secure <especially financially>; (4) thorough; complete; (5) whole; unimpaired; unhurt; unmutilated; not weak, diseased, or damaged; healthy Saying: A sound mind in a sound body … Read more

Soothing

Definitions: (1) restored to a quiet, calm, or normal state; (2) mitigate, soften, or relieve <as pain or grief>; (3) gratifying; pleasing <soothing clarinet> Synonyms: allaying, appeasing, assuaging, composed, pacifying Quote:• The spoken word is man’s physician in grief. For this alone has soothing charms for the soul. — Menander (c. 342–290 BC) Greek dramatist• … Read more

Sophisticated

Definitions: (1) knowledgeable and perceptive of modern matters; urbane; worldly-wise; cultured; (2) clever with complex ideas Derivation: The Sophists were a class of ancient Greeks who taught values: rhetoric, philosophy, politics, mathematics, etc. Unfortunately, the use of vain subtleties and false axioms by some, gave the word sophistry its current meaning of general distrust and … Read more

Solemn

Definitions: (1) serious <especially with religious reverence>; sacred; devout; pious; marked by veneration to God; (2) willing to be deeply earnest, very sincere <a solemn oath> Synonyms: awe-inspiring, profound Compatible Qualities: liturgical, prayerful, worshipful Familial Qualities: humor, selflessness Too Far: dour Quote: Our errors are surely not such awfully solemn things. In a world where … Read more

Solid

Definitions: (1) firm; sound; real; genuine; (2) showing complete unity <a solid contract>; in accord; (3) possessing moral strength and just principles; (4) displaying valid or true reasoning; (5) dependable <a solid relationship>; (6) exhibiting substantial quality <solid values>; (7) demonstrating ample comfort <solid furniture> Synonyms: complete, prudent, stable, stout, thoroughgoing Balancing Qualities: Flexible, Flowing … Read more

Soft

Definitions: (1) gentle to the touch; smooth; pleasant to the feelings; comfortable; (2) easy to work with; malleable; pliable; flexible; (3) not hard, rough, rigid, rude, or harsh; (4) emollient (making soft) Synonyms: civil, courteous, delicate, engaging, kind, lenient, mellow, mollify, mild, quiet, sentimental, sympathetic, tender Balancing Quality: Hardy Too Far: timid Quotes: Our love … Read more