Word of the Day: EPICARICACY

Pronunciation: UK/ˌɛpɪˈkærɪkəsi/ or US/ˌɛpɪˈkærɪkəsi/

Meaning:

Epicaricacy is the act of deriving pleasure from the misfortunes of others.

It is the direct English equivalent of the more commonly used German loanword Schadenfreude.

Example for daily usage:

• "There was a hint of epicaricacy in the rival candidate's voice as he discussed the incumbent's plummeting poll numbers."
• "While we should feel bad for the clumsy waiter, a small, dark part of the human psyche often indulges in a moment of epicaricacy."

Origin and history:

The word is constructed from Ancient Greek roots: epi- (upon), chara (joy), and kakon (evil). Literally, it translates to "joy upon evil." It appeared in English dictionaries as early as the 17th and 18th centuries (notably in Thomas Blount's Glossographia) as a way to categorise the human tendency to gloat. However, it fell out of common use in the 19th century when the German Schadenfreude became the fashionable way to describe the feeling.

Also read | Word of the Day, May 12: 'Tawdry'

Cultural significance and modern usage:

In British English, epicaricacy is considered a "lexical curiosity"-a word that exists but is rarely used in conversation. It is often revived by linguists and "word nerds" who prefer to use native-rooted English words over foreign imports. It describes a specific type of "guilty pleasure" that society generally frowns upon but everyone experiences.

Interesting facts:

• The "Forgotten" Word: Epicaricacy is often cited in lists of "words we should bring back" because it provides a rhythmic, English alternative to a concept we usually borrow from Germany.
• The Opposite: The opposite of epicaricacy is mudita (a Sanskrit word) or confelicity, which means taking joy in the happiness of others.