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Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day
compunction
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Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day for October 20, 2026 is: compunction \kum-PUNK-shun\ noun Compunction refers to a feeling of misgiving, that is, doubt or suspicion especially concerning a future event. It can also refer to a feeling of guilt or regret. The word is typically used in negative constructions. // We moved ahead with the plans without compunction. // They felt no compunctions about their crimes. [See the entry >](https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compunction) Examples: "As a younger man, he tried to finish everything he started. But today he drops a book without compunction if he's extracted what he needed or lost interest." — Jim Higgins, The Milwaukee Journal…