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WORD OF THE DAY

The word Procrustean is perfect for describing a person or institution that forces people to conform. Tyrannical governments can be Procrustean, as can certain clubs and organizations.

This marvelous adjective characterizing pointless or ruthless demand for conformity owes its meaning to a son of the Greek god Poseidon: Procrustes, who stretched his guests or cut off their legs in order to make them fit his bed. A frustrated — and well-spoken — high school student might accuse his school of using Procrustean means to force all students to fit one particular educational mold.


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