Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day for August 18, 2026, is oxymoron. An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines contradictory or opposite words. These word combinations create a striking effect by juxtaposing incongruous elements. Examples include "cruel kindness," "open secret," and Shakespeare's "loving hate." In a broader sense, an oxymoron can describe any concept made of contradictory parts. The term originates from ancient Greek, meaning "pointed foolishness." This reflects the deliberate pairing of seemingly opposing ideas. The Greek roots "oxys" (sharp) and "mōros" (foolish) are near antonyms themselves, making the word self-descriptive. Initially, oxymorons represented condensed, meaningful paradoxes. Today, the term is also applied to phrases where elements have multiple meanings or appear antithetical in spirit.