The word epistolary has appeared in 27 articles on NYTimes.com in the past year, including on Nov. 11 in the book review “Two Stories That Unfold Through Letters” by Elisabeth Egan:
Even though I’m pretty sure it’s a federal crime, I love reading other people’s mail. I’d never rifle through your mailbox — mostly because I’m afraid of getting caught — but I will definitely sneak a peek at that postcard lying face up on your kitchen table. Forgive me; it’s tantalizing, and it says so much in so few words.
… Maybe this is why I’m such a fan of epistolary books: They’re reminders that a letter is still the most enduring way to make a statement. Also, “epistolary” such a funny word! Try to say it without smiling. Herewith I enclose my favorite examples of the genre.
Daily Word Challenge
Can you correctly use the word epistolary in a sentence?
Based on the definition and example provided, write a sentence using today’s Word of the Day and share it as a comment on this article. It is most important that your sentence makes sense and demonstrates that you understand the word’s definition, but we also encourage you to be creative and have fun.
Then, read some of the other sentences students have submitted and use the “Recommend” button to vote for two original sentences that stand out to you.
If you want a better idea of how epistolary can be used in a sentence, read these usage examples on Vocabulary.com.
Students ages 13 and older in the United States and the United Kingdom, and 16 and older elsewhere, can comment. All comments are moderated by the Learning Network staff.
The Word of the Day is provided by Vocabulary.com. Learn more and see usage examples across a range of subjects in the Vocabulary.com Dictionary. See every Word of the Day in this column.
