Word library

Words starting with U

15 words from the news, each with a definition, etymology, and the story behind it.

ube

A vibrant purple yam native to Southeast Asia, commonly used in desserts for its sweet,…

Culture

ubiquity

The state of being everywhere at once; the quality of being so common or widespread that…

Culture

ubuntu

A philosophy emphasizing human interconnectedness and the belief that a person’s identity…

Health

ultimatum

A final demand or statement of terms, the rejection of which will result in retaliation…

Health

umami

A savory, rich, and deep flavor profile that enhances the taste of ingredients, distinct…

Culture

unanimity

A status in which all members of a group are in complete agreement or hold the same…

World

underclassmen

Students who are in their first or second year of high school or college; freshmen and…

Sports

undercurrent

A hidden or less obvious trend, feeling, or series of events that exists beneath the…

Technology

underemployment

A condition where a worker is employed but works fewer hours than they desire or are…

Health

unicorn

A privately held startup company that has achieved a valuation of at least $1 billion.

Business

unilateralism

The practice of a government making foreign policy decisions or taking actions…

Climate

universality

The extent to which a sport has widespread participation and broad appeal across many…

Sports

upskilling

The process of teaching employees new, higher-level skills to help them keep pace with…

Technology

urea

A nitrogen-based chemical compound used as a primary ingredient in the production of…

Climate

utero

Within the womb; occurring or existing during the period of development before birth.

Health