Vicissitude

By Deane Barker

Definition: a change in condition, often unfavorable

This often means something that changes regularly, or goes back and forth. The implication is usually negative.

Why I Looked It Up

In Team of Rivals:

A child less strong-willed and high-spirited than Kate might have been crushed by the vicissitudes of her father’s demanding love, which we bestowed or denied depending on her performance.

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