Word of the Day: SUPPLE

Not stiff or rigid

supple (adj) - easily bending or bendable; flexible, pliant, or limber [suhp-uhl]

BREAKDOWN: The issue with understanding the etymology of supple is not whether the word derives from roots but rather which ones. The prefix SUP- is a variant of SUB- meaning under. The second half however, may come from PLAC- meaning calm (as in placid) or PLIC- meaning fold (as in pliable). May as well learn both roots, right?

“Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness. In order to achieve happiness, it is imperative to gain mastery of your body. If at the age of 30 you are stiff and out of shape, you are old. If at 60 you are supple and strong, then you are young.” —Joseph Pilates

[Our Wednesday Wildcards are fascinating and important words that are not derived from classical roots.]