Defining probity, verve, and wiles from Severance Season 2 Episode 10

Between Milchick and the animatronic Kier Eagan, we got some not-so-ordinary vocabulary choices in the Severance Season 2 finale. It was fun to break down the big words Milchick used in Episode 9, so let’s do the same for Episode 10 as well!

What is the definition of Probity, Verve, and Wiles?

Usually, these definitions come after Milchick drops a big word, but in this episode, it was more of just not-so-commonly used words, and one even came from the animatronic Kier! Here’s the definition for all the more unusual words in the Severance Season 2 finale:

• Probity
  • Probity refers to complete and confirmed integrity; uprightness and honesty in character and actions. It describes someone or something that demonstrates strong moral principles, decency, and ethical behavior. The term comes from the Latin word “probitas”, meaning “goodness” or “honesty.” It’s often associated with positions of trust and responsibility, where ethical conduct is especially important.
• Verve
  • Verve refers to enthusiasm, vigor, spirit, or energy, especially as expressed in art, literature, or a performance. It describes a lively and energetic quality that brings vitality and excitement to an activity or creation. It comes from French, where it originally referred to a special talent or gift in artistic expression. Unlike technical skill alone, Verve captures that intangible quality of spirited engagement that can elevate and ordinary performance or creation to something memorable.
• Wiles
  • Wiles refers to clever tricks, strategies, or tactics used to manipulate, deceive, or persuade others. The term typically carries a connotation of cunning or craftiness, though not always with malicious intent. Unlike brute force or direct approaches, wiles suggest subtlety, psychological insight, and an ability to understand and exploit others’ motivations or weaknesses. The term has an old-fashioned quality to it, appearing frequently in folktales, myths, and classical literature.

While not quite the wordsmithing we got from the previous episode, these are still some heavy hitters from Milchick and Kier in the Severance Season 2 finale. Who knows what words will await in Season 3!

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