Words of Wonder: 20 untranslatable words from around the world to help you rediscover awe, softness, and the poetry of being human

What if the right word could shift your whole perspective?

Words of Wonder is a lyrical and soul-nourishing exploration of rare, evocative words from around the world—each one a key that unlocks a new way of seeing, feeling, or being. Blending the beauty of language with the quiet magic of everyday moments, this book is an invitation to slow down, savour, and notice what you might have missed.

Writer, mindfulness teacher, and creator of the Substack Dose of Wonder, Caitlin McColl curates a collection of stunning, wonder-filled words—each paired with a short reflection on psychology, presence, and the art of noticing. From the Japanese concept of yugen (mysterious awe of the universe) to the Portuguese word madrugada (the time between midnight and morning ), these words hold space for the nuanced, often unspoken aspects of the human experience.

This isn't just a vocabulary list. It's a poetic field guide for the soul.

Perfect for readers who love language, gentle reflection, and the feeling of being seen, Words of Wonder will speak to the part of you that craves quiet depth in a loud world. Whether you read one word a day or curl up with it like a cup of tea, this book offers a dose of awe, a touch of whimsy, and a reminder that there's beauty in paying attention.

Word count: ~6859