A.Word.A.Day--philodox philodox (FIL-uh-doks) noun Someone who loves his or her own opinion; a dogmatic person. [From Greek philodoxos, from philo- (love) + doxa (glory, opinion). Ultimately from Indo-European root dek- (to take or accept) that's also the root of words such as paradox, orthodox, doctor, disciple, discipline, doctrine, dogma, decorate, dignity, and disdain.] "Don't take this as a comment on events in Washington -- or on newspaper editorial pages -- but I thought I should tell you that a philodox is a person who loves fame or glory or, more specifically, an argumentative or dogmatic person who loves his own opinions." Michael Gartner; Calling all Philologues; Austin American Statesman (Texas); Jan 15, 2000. "In effect, a philodoxical thinker can become very good and highly skilled at doubting and critiquing maps other than her own." Dale Cannon; Newsletter on Teaching in Philosophy (Newark, Delaware); Spring 2001. This week's theme: words to describe people. X-Bonus If we escape punishment for our vices, why should we complain if we are not rewarded for our virtues? -John Churton Collins, literary critic (1848-1908)

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