Word of the Day
October 3, 2023
Aplomb
Self-confident assurance or poise; self-possession springing from perfect confidence in one’s abilities.
From the French 'à plomb' meaning 'according to the plumb line,' suggesting perfect vertical balance. The term evolved to describe a person's mental and emotional steadiness under pressure.
Usage Examples
- The founding fathers had significant aplomb because of their understanding of human nature and their study of the classics and history.
- Lauren Fix discussed the auto industry's challenges with characteristic aplomb, presenting complex economic realities in accessible terms.
- Mailyn Salabarria speaks with aplomb about her experiences under Cuban communism, using her story to warn Americans about creeping authoritarianism.
From the Show
Kim’s choice of aplomb captured the self-assured confidence needed to stand against government overreach, whether from union demands threatening the auto industry or school policies silencing student speech. Both Lauren Fix and Mailyn Salabarria demonstrated aplomb in their respective segments, tackling complex issues with clarity and conviction. Hear their discussions in The Truth About Union Strikes and Classroom Censorship.