Word of the Week: Voluble

There’s a word we don’t hear often enough: voluble.

Traditionally, voluble is defined as speaking easily and at length—often associated with talkativeness. But here at MDW, we like to look beyond the surface.

Let’s reclaim voluble not as a synonym for chatter, but as a reflection of confidence, presence, and purposeful expression.

To be voluble doesn’t mean to talk just to fill the silence. It means being able to speak fluidly when the moment calls for it—to let your voice rise when it matters, to speak from the heart without stumbling over fear or doubt.

There is strength in a woman who knows her voice, trusts her voice, and uses it intentionally.

But here's the paradox we hold with care: the most voluble among us often know when not to speak. They’ve mastered the art of listening—truly listening—to understand, to hold space, to reflect. Because the power of speech is amplified when it’s balanced by the power of silence.

This week, explore what it means to speak on purpose.

Let your words carry compassion, clarity, and intent. Notice where you might be filling space just to avoid discomfort, and where you might be holding back your voice out of fear. Let go of both.

You are allowed to take up space with your voice. You are allowed to pause and listen. You are allowed to be voluble—with wisdom.

Reflection Prompts:

• When was the last time I felt confident and at ease while speaking?

• Where in my life am I speaking with intent—and where am I holding back?

• What does being a “voluble listener” look like for me?

Mantra for the Week:

"I speak with purpose. I listen with care. My voice is powerful and compassionate."

---

About the Author:

Elizabeth Rago is a word-loving, community-building powerhouse who’s just as comfortable wrangling RFPs as she is wrangling teenagers (which says a lot about her patience and project management skills).

By day, she's a Proposal Writer, crafting winning messaging for big business. When the workday ends, she trades deadlines for dinner duty and teenage debates — holding it all together with love, Earl Grey tea, and a well-honed sense of humor.

After walking through a rough season in her own life, Elizabeth saw firsthand how isolating it can be for women going through hard times. Instead of sitting in that shame, she founded MDW (The Modern Domestic Woman) — a warm, practical, and no-nonsense space where women can find resources, support, and a whole lot of real talk. From mental health referrals to interviews with therapists and lifestyle articles, MDW has become a haven for women who want community without the fluff.

Elizabeth has spent over 20 years writing for just about every industry under the sun — from luxury kitchen design and sustainable living to commercial insurance and mental health advocacy. She’s ghostwritten for executives, co-hosted a podcast about the hilarity and chaos of motherhood, and even helped spotlight fascinating local people and places through her syndicated column.

Equal parts strategy and soul, Elizabeth believes in the power of storytelling, the magic of a strong community, and never underestimates the therapeutic power of a well-placed meme. Learn more about Elizabeth at MDWcares.com or connect with her on Insta or LinkedIn.