‘Words, n. & int! 𓋹

11/03/2026

Words from several different languages that cannot be translated due to their specific and unique definition.

Japanese

Tsundoku (積ん読)

Definition. Is the phenomenon of acquiring reading materials but letting them pile up in a home without reading them. The term is also used to refer to unread books on a bookshelf meant for reading later.

Mono no aware (物の哀れ)

Definition. Refers to the Japanese concept of the beauty and sadness that comes from the transience of life. This term captures a deep emotional response to the fleeting nature of existence, emphasizing appreciation for the momentary beauty found in things, as well as a sense of nostalgia.

Komorebi (木漏れ日)

Definition. Describes the sunlight filtered through the leaves of the trees, creating a play of shadows and lights on the ground.

German

Fingerspitzengefühl

Definition. "Finger tips feeling" and meaning intuitive flair or instinct. It describes a great situational awareness, and the ability to respond most appropriately and tactfully.

Fernweh

Definition. Longing for somewhere you've never been.

Weltschmerz

Definition. Is a literary concept describing the feeling experienced by an individual who believes that reality can never satisfy the expectations of the mind, resulting in "a mood of weariness or sadness about life arising from the acute awareness of evil and suffering".

Portuguese!

Saudade

Definition. Is an emotional state of melancholic or profoundly nostalgic longing for a beloved yet absent someone or something.

Greek

Meraki (μεράκι)

Definition. Doing something with soul, creativity, or love—essentially putting "the essence of yourself" into your work. It describes performing tasks with passion, undivided attention, and devotion, such as cooking, art, or daily tasks. It is often described as leaving a piece of yourself in your work.

Sophrosyne (Σοφροσύνη)

Definition. Representing an ideal of excellence of character, soundness of mind, and holistic health. It is a complex, multifaceted term often translated as self-control, moderation, temperance, or discretion.