Word of the Day
March 10, 2025
Listen
To pay attention to a sound; to hear something with thoughtful attention; give consideration; to be alert to catch an expected sound.
From Old English 'hlysnan' meaning to pay attention to, from Proto-Germanic 'hlusnijan.' Related to Old High German 'hlosēn' and Gothic 'hausjan.' The word emphasizes active engagement rather than passive hearing.
Usage Examples
- When constituents speak at town halls, elected officials have a duty to listen to their concerns about affordability.
- Property rights advocates listen carefully to market signals rather than relying solely on government mandates.
- Community members who listen to their neighbors build stronger bonds than those who only speak.
From the Show
The word ‘listen’ served as the thematic foundation for the March 10, 2025 discussion featuring affordable housing expert Brian Phillips. Guest host Karen Levine chose this as her word of the year, noting that thoughtful attention to constituents’ concerns about affordability and property rights requires genuine listening from policymakers rather than predetermined agendas.