Leonardo da Vinci: The heights of the mind Flashcards
Emissary
a person sent on a special mission, usually as a diplomatic representative.
Profundity
deep insight; great depth of knowledge or thought. "the simplicity and profundity of the message" Similar: wisdom (deep) insight intelligence sagacity acuity depth profoundness perceptiveness penetration perception percipience perspicuity discernment thoughtfulness sapience great depth or intensity of a state, quality, or emotion. "the profundity of her misery" Similar: intensity depth extremity severity keenness profoundness strength a statement or idea that shows great knowledge or insight. plural noun: profundities "such well-articulated profundities as “You're some kinda woman.”"
Grapple
engage in a close fight or struggle without weapons; wrestle.
“passersby grappled with the man after the knife attack”
Hagiographic
A hagiography is a biography of a saint or an ecclesiastical leader, as well as, by extension, an adulatory and idealized biography of a founder, saint, monk, nun or icon in any of the world’s religions.
Expunge
erase or remove completely (something unwanted or unpleasant).
Reckon
establish by counting or calculation; calculate. "his debts were reckoned at $300,000" Similar: calculate compute work out put a figure on figure number quantify count (up) add up total tally tot up 2. consider or regard in a specified way. "the event was reckoned a failure"
Vantage
a place or position affording a good view of something
Venal
showing or motivated by susceptibility to bribery.
Hitherto
adverb
until now or until the point in time under discussion.
“there is a need to replace what has hitherto been a haphazard method of payment”
Outlandish
adjective 1. looking or sounding bizarre or unfamiliar. "outlandish, brightly colored clothes" 2. ARCHAIC foreign or alien.
Disruption
disturbance or problems which interrupt an event, activity, or process. "the schedule was planned to minimize disruption" Similar: disturbance disordering disarrangement disarranging interference upset upsetting unsettling confusion confusing disorderliness disorganization turmoil disarray interruption suspension discontinuation stoppage obstruction impeding hampering spoiling ruining wrecking undermining holding up delaying delay retardation 2. radical change to an existing industry or market due to technological innovation. "no industry is immune to digital disruption"
Palpable
1. (of a feeling or atmosphere) so intense as to seem almost tangible. "a palpable sense of loss" Similar: perceptible perceivable visible noticeable appreciable discernible detectable observable tangible recognizable notable unmistakable transparent indisputable self-evident incontrovertible incontestable undeniable obvious clear plain plain to see evident apparent manifest patent marked conspicuous pronounced striking distinct as plain as a pikestaff standing/sticking out a mile right under one's nose staring one in the face writ large beyond doubt beyond question written all over someone as clear as day blinding inescapable overt open undisguised unconcealed glaring blatant flagrant barefaced gross stark Opposite: intangible imperceptible 2. able to be touched or felt.
Vertigo
noun
a sensation of whirling and loss of balance, associated particularly with looking down from a great height, or caused by disease affecting the inner ear or the vestibular nerve; giddiness.
Prolific
present in large numbers or quantities; plentiful.
Montage
the process or technique of selecting, editing, and piecing together separate sections of film to form a continuous whole.
Codex
an ancient manuscript text in book form.
Sumptuous
splendid and expensive-looking.
Dismantle
take (a machine or structure) to pieces.
Snip
cut (something) with scissors or shears, typically with small quick strokes. "she inspected the embroidery, snipping at loose threads" Similar: cut clip cut into slit nick gash notch incise snick cut off snip off trim (off) prune hack off chop off saw off lop (off) dock crop sever separate detach remove take off noun 1. an act of cutting something with small quick strokes. "he took a snip at a dandelion on the grass" Similar: cut clip trim slit nick gash notch incision snick 2. a surprisingly cheap item; a bargain. "the wine is a snip at £2.65"
Assemblage
a collection or gathering of things or people.
Expropriate
(especially of the state) take away (property) from its owner.
Vellum
fine parchment made originally from the skin of a calf.
2.
smooth writing paper imitating vellum.
Duffel
a coarse woolen cloth with a thick nap.
“a duffel hat”
Potency
noun 1. the power of something to influence or make an impression. "a myth of enormous potency" Similar: power powerfulness vigor strength might mightiness force forcefulness influence dominance energy potential puissance effectiveness persuasiveness cogency impressiveness authoritativeness authority headiness efficacy efficaciousness kick 2. a male's ability to achieve an erection or to reach orgasm. "medications that diminish sexual potency"
Spumy
adjective emitting or filled with bubbles as from carbonation or fermentation
Jostling
gerund or present participle: jostling push, elbow, or bump against (someone) roughly, typically in a crowd. "people jostled against us" Similar: bump into/against knock into/against bang into collide with cannon into plow into jolt push shove elbow hustle mob barrel into thrust barge force squeeze shoulder bulldoze struggle vie jockey scramble crowd one another scrum struggle or compete forcefully for. "a jumble of images jostled for attention"
Agglomeration
a mass or collection of things; an assemblage
Squiggle
a short line that curls and loops in an irregular way.
Viticulture
the cultivation of grapevines.
Scrabal
: of, relating to, or due to a scribe
Tic
a habitual spasmodic contraction of the muscles, most often in the face.
Similar:
twitch
spasm
jerk
convulsion
contraction
tremor
tremble
an idiosyncratic and habitual feature of a person’s behavior.
“I began with the kind of generalization that was one of my primary tics as a writer”
Ephemera
things that exist or are used or enjoyed for only a short time.
“there were papers, letters, old boxes—all sorts of ephemera”
items of collectible memorabilia, typically written or printed ones, that were originally expected to have only short-term usefulness or popularity.
“Mickey Mouse ephemera”
Precocious
adjective (of a child) having developed certain abilities or proclivities at an earlier age than usual. "he was a precocious, solitary boy" Similar: advanced old beyond one's years forward ahead of one's peers mature prematurely developed ahead gifted talented clever intelligent quick smart rathe-ripe Opposite: backward slow (of behavior or ability) indicative of early development. "a precocious talent for computing" (of a plant) flowering or fruiting earlier than usual.
Trope
a figurative or metaphorical use of a word or expression.
Flannel
noun
1.
a kind of soft-woven fabric, typically made of wool or cotton and slightly milled and raised.
“my longest, thickest flannel nightgown”
2. BRITISH a small piece of toweling used for washing oneself. Similar: facecloth cloth washcloth washrag washer verbINFORMAL•BRITISH use bland fluent talk to avoid addressing a difficult subject or situation directly. "he apologised for the situation and then flanneled on about ramping up production"
Conjecture
noun an opinion or conclusion formed on the basis of incomplete information. "conjectures about the newcomer were many and varied" Similar: guess speculation surmise fancy notion belief suspicion presumption assumption theory hypothesis postulation supposition inference extrapolation projection approximation estimate rough calculation rough idea guesswork guessing surmising imagining theorizing guesstimate shot in the dark ballpark figure Opposite: fact verb form an opinion or supposition about (something) on the basis of incomplete information. "many conjectured that the jury could not agree"
Emblem
a heraldic device or symbolic object as a distinctive badge of a nation, organization, or family. "America's national emblem, the bald eagle" Similar: symbol representation token image figure mark sign crest badge device insignia stamp seal design heraldic device coat of arms shield logo trademark a thing serving as a symbolic representation of a particular quality or concept. "our child would be a dazzling emblem of our love"
ubiquitous
adjective
present, appearing, or found everywhere.
“his ubiquitous influence was felt by all the family”
Orthodoxy
noun plural noun: orthodoxies 1. authorized or generally accepted theory, doctrine, or practice. "monetarist orthodoxy" Similar: doctrine belief conviction creed dogma credo theory view idea tenet teaching practice received wisdom article of faith 2. the whole community of Orthodox Jews or Orthodox Christians. "she was brought up in orthodoxy"
Assertion
a confident and forceful statement of fact or belief. "his assertion that his father had deserted the family" Similar: declaration contention statement claim submission postulation averment opinion proclamation announcement pronouncement assurance attestation affirmation protestation profession swearing insistence avowal maintenance asseveration the action of stating something or exercising authority confidently and forcefully. "the assertion of his legal rights"
Caveat
noun a warning or proviso of specific stipulations, conditions, or limitations. "there are a number of caveats which concern the validity of the assessment results" Similar: warning caution admonition monition red flag alarm bells proviso condition stipulation provision clause rider qualification restriction reservation limitation strings LAW a notice, especially in a probate, that certain actions may not be taken without informing the person who gave the notice.
Stratification
noun
the arrangement or classification of something into different groups.
“wealth is the main symbol of social stratification”
the formation of strata in rock.
“rock seams without any distinct stratification”
the placing of seeds close together in layers in moist sand or peat to preserve them or to help them germinate.
“following cold stratification, seeds were germinated in greenhouses”
Smudge
verb cause (something) to become messily smeared by rubbing it. "she dabbed her eyes, careful not to smudge her makeup" Similar: streak mark dirty spot soil muddy fleck speck blotch blacken smear stripe dot blot blob daub bedaub stain splotch splodge besmirch blur mess up noun a blurred or smeared mark on the surface of something. "a smudge of blood on the floor"
Inscription
words inscribed, as on a monument or in a book.
Tantalize
torment or tease (someone) with the sight or promise of something that is unobtainable.
“such ambitious questions have long tantalized the world’s best thinkers”
excite the senses or desires of (someone).
“she still tantalized him”
Suffuse
gradually spread through or over.
Druid
: one of an ancient Celtic priesthood appearing in Irish and Welsh sagas and Christian legends as magicians and wizards
Moot
adjective 1. subject to debate, dispute, or uncertainty. "whether they had been successful or not was a moot point" Similar: debatable open to debate open to discussion arguable questionable at issue open to question open doubtful open to doubt disputable contestable controvertible problematic problematical controversial contentious vexed disputed unresolved unsettled up in the air undecided yet to be decided undetermined unconcluded 2. having little or no practical relevance, typically because the subject is too uncertain to allow a decision. "the whole matter is becoming increasingly moot" verb raise (a question or topic) for discussion; suggest (an idea or possibility). "Sylvia needed a vacation, and a trip to Ireland had been mooted" Similar: raise bring up broach mention put forward introduce advance present propose suggest submit propound air ventilate noun 1. HISTORICAL an assembly held for debate, especially in Anglo-Saxon and medieval times. 2. LAW a mock trial set up to examine a hypothetical case as an academic exercise. "the object of a moot is to provide practice in developing an argument"
Nuance
a subtle difference in or shade of meaning, expression, or sound.
Dandy
a man unduly devoted to style, neatness, and fashion in dress and appearance. "his floppy handkerchiefs and antique cufflinks gave him the look of a dandy" Similar: fop beau man about town bright young thing glamour boy rake boulevardier petit-maître swell toff dude sharp dresser snappy dresser natty dresser trendy pretty boy blade blood buck coxcomb masher peacock popinjay dapperling 2. DATED•INFORMAL an excellent thing of its kind. "this umbrella is a dandy"
Reminiscence
a story told about a past event remembered by the narrator.
“his reminiscences of his early days in Washington”
Similar:
memories
recollections
reflections
remembrances
anecdotes
memoirs
the enjoyable recollection of past events.
“his story made me smile in reminiscence”
a collection in literary form of incidents and experiences that someone remembers.
Posthumous
occurring, awarded, or appearing after the death of the originator.
“he was awarded a posthumous Military Cross”
(of a child) born after the death of its father.
“Newton was the posthumous son of an illiterate yeoman”
Depiction
the action or result of depicting something, especially in art.
Venerable
accorded a great deal of respect, especially because of age, wisdom, or character.
Magus
a member of a priestly caste of ancient Persia.
a sorcerer.
Scruffy
shabby and untidy or dirty. "a teenager in scruffy jeans and a baggy T-shirt" Similar: shabby worn down at heel shoddy ragged tattered mangy sorry run down disreputable untidy unkempt bedraggled messy disheveled ungroomed ill-groomed sleazy seedy slatternly slovenly dirty squalid filthy tatty the worse for wear scuzzy grungy yucky grotty raggedy Opposite: smart tidy clean 2. (of a man's face) having short, bristly hairs as a result of not having been shaved for a while. "his employer has gotten used to seeing his face becoming scruffier each spring"
Saddle
1.
a seat fastened on the back of a horse or other animal for riding, typically made of leather and raised at the front and rear.
2.
a low part of a ridge between two higher points or peaks.
“follow the road which goes across the saddle between two tors”
verb
put a saddle on (a horse).
“he was in the stable saddling up his horse”
Parish
typically having its own church and a priest or pastor. "a parish church" Similar: parishioners churchgoers church congregation flock fold community US (in Louisiana) a territorial division corresponding to a county in other states.
Dilapidated
(of a building or object) in a state of disrepair or ruin as a result of age or neglect.
“old, dilapidated buildings”
Crest
a comb or tuft of feathers, fur, or skin on the head of a bird or other animal. "a large game bird with a conspicuous erect red crest" Similar: comb plume tuft topknot mane aigrette panache tassel caruncle 2. the top of a mountain or hill. "she reached the crest of the hill" Similar: summit peak highest point top mountaintop tip pinnacle brow crown head cap brink apex vertex apogee zenith ridge tor aiguille serac Opposite: bottom
verb
1.
reach the top of (something such as a hill or wave).
“she crested a hill and saw the valley spread out before her”
2.
(of a wave) form a curling foamy top.
“the swell begins to curl and crest”
Notary
a person authorized to perform certain legal formalities, especially to draw up or certify contracts, deeds, and other documents for use in other jurisdictions.
Piquant
having a pleasantly sharp taste or appetizing flavor. "a piquant tartare sauce" Similar: spicy tangy spiced peppery hot tasty flavorsome flavorful appetizing highly seasoned savory pungent sharp tart zesty strong salty sapid flavorous pleasantly stimulating or exciting to the mind.
Vesper
evening prayer. "vesper service" ARCHAIC evening. LITERARY Venus as the evening star.
Sequester
verb 1. isolate or hide away. "Tiberius was sequestered on an island" Similar: isolate oneself hide oneself away shut oneself away seclude oneself cut/shut oneself off set oneself apart segregate oneself closet oneself withdraw oneself remove oneself retire 2. take legal possession of (assets) until a debt has been paid or other claims have been met. "the power of courts to sequester the assets of unions" nounUS a general cut in government spending. "if the budget deal hadn't gone through, there would have been a sequester of at least $100 billion"
Vermilion
a brilliant red pigment made from mercury sulfide (cinnabar).
a brilliant red color.
Elusive
difficult to find, catch, or achieve. "success will become ever more elusive" Similar: difficult to catch/find difficult to track down evasive slippery shifty always on the move cagey difficult to remember or recall. "the elusive thought he had had moments before"
Octogenarian
a person who is from 80 to 89 years old.
“the octogenarian is making his TV writing debut”
Perennial
lasting or existing for a long or apparently infinite time; enduring or continually recurring.
“his perennial distrust of the media”
Enviable
arousing or likely to arouse envy.
“an enviable reputation for academic achievement”
Signorial
historical
Of or relating to the power of a feudal lord.
Assiduous
showing great care and perseverance.
Mercantile
adjective relating to trade or commerce; commercial. "the shift of wealth to the mercantile classes" Similar: commercial trade trading business merchant sales profit-oriented money-oriented profit-making for-profit mercenary capitalistic worldly greedy materialistic Opposite: idealistic unworldly nounDATED a general store. "we walked to the local mercantile"
Attest
provide or serve as clear evidence of.
“his status is attested by his recent promotion”
declare that something exists or is the case.
“I can attest to his tremendous energy”
be a witness to; certify formally.
“the witnesses must attest and sign the will in the testator’s presence”
Guild
a medieval association of craftsmen or merchants, often having considerable power. an association of people for mutual aid or the pursuit of a common goal. Similar: association society union league alliance coalition federation consortium syndicate combine trust organization company cooperative partnership fellowship club order lodge sisterhood sorority brotherhood fraternity consociation sodality ECOLOGY a group of species that have similar requirements and play a similar role within a community.
Investiture
the action of formally investing a person with honors or rank.
“the investiture of bishops”
Envoy
noun 1. a messenger or representative, especially one on a diplomatic mission. "the UN special envoy to Yugoslavia" Similar: representative delegate deputy agent intermediary mediator negotiator proxy surrogate liaison broker accredited messenger courier spokesperson spokesman spokeswoman mouthpiece stand-in go-between factor 2. a minister plenipotentiary, ranking below ambassador and above chargé d'affaires.
Paramilitary
(of an unofficial force) organized similarly to a military force.
“soldiers and police have been killed in conflicts with the drug cartels and their paramilitary allies”
Staunch
loyal and committed in attitude. "a staunch supporter of the antinuclear lobby" Similar: stalwart loyal faithful trusty committed devoted dedicated dependable reliable steady constant hard-working vigorous stable firm steadfast redoubtable resolute unswerving unwavering unhesitating unfaltering Opposite: disloyal unfaithful unreliable 2. (of a wall) of strong or firm construction. "these staunch walls could withstand attack by cannon"
Ruthless
having or showing no pity or compassion for others.
“a ruthless manipulator”
Mercenary
(of a person or their behavior) primarily concerned with making money at the expense of ethics. "she's nothing but a mercenary little gold digger" Similar: money-oriented grasping greedy acquisitive avaricious covetous rapacious bribable venal materialistic money-grubbing Opposite: altruistic philanthropic noun a professional soldier hired to serve in a foreign army. "he had planned to seize power with the aid of a group of mercenaries"
Ambit
the scope, extent, or bounds of something.
Stylized
depicted or treated in a mannered and nonrealistic style.
“gracefully shaped vases decorated with stylized but recognizable white lilies”
Quirk
noun 1. a peculiar behavioral habit. "his distaste for travel is an endearing quirk" Similar: idiosyncrasy peculiarity oddity eccentricity foible whim whimsy notion conceit vagary caprice fancy kink crotchet mannerism habit characteristic trait feature obsession fad idée fixe hang-up thing singularity 2. ARCHITECTURE an acute hollow between convex or other moldings. verb (with reference to a person's mouth or eyebrow) move or twist suddenly, especially to express surprise or amusement. "his lips quirked disbelievingly"
Pastoral
adjective 1. (especially of land or a farm) used for or related to the keeping or grazing of sheep or cattle. "scattered pastoral farms" 2. (in the Christian Church) concerning or appropriate to the giving of spiritual guidance. "pastoral and doctrinal issues" Similar: priestly clerical ecclesiastical ministerial hieratic sacerdotal vicarial parsonical rectorial churchly prelatic apostolic noun a work of literature portraying an idealized version of country life. "the story, though a pastoral, has an actual connection with the life of agricultural labor"
Mappable
Able to be represented by a map.
Satellite imagery has made many inaccessible areas much more mappable.
Able to be associated with something else by means of a mapping.
Computers on the Internet are mappable to IP addresses.
Milieu
a person’s social environment
Lustrous
having luster; shining.
Impart
verb make (information) known; communicate. "teachers had a duty to impart strong morals to their students" Similar: communicate pass on convey transmit relay relate recount set forth present tell make known make public go public with report announce proclaim spread disseminate circulate promulgate broadcast disclose reveal divulge bring into the open let on about tell all about blab spill discover unbosom Opposite: keep to oneself bestow (a quality). "its main use has been to impart a high surface gloss to finished articles"
Antiquity
noun 1. the ancient past, especially the period before the Middle Ages. "the great civilizations of antiquity" Similar: ancient times the ancient past classical times former times the distant past times gone by the olden days days of yore yesteryear the eld 2. great age. "a church of great antiquity"
Betrothed 
the person to whom one is engaged.
“how long have you known your betrothed?”
Entailment
the person to whom one is engaged.
“how long have you known your betrothed?”
Impeccable
adjective (of behavior, performance, or appearance) in accordance with the highest standards of propriety; faultless. "a man of impeccable character" Similar: flawless faultless unblemished spotless stainless untarnished perfect exemplary ideal model virtuous pure moral sinless upright irreproachable unimpeachable blameless guiltless above suspicion beyond reproach beyond criticism incorrupt uncorrupted squeaky clean whiter than white lily white as pure as the driven snow Opposite: imperfect sinful RARE•THEOLOGY not liable to sin.
Conceivable
it is conceivable or imaginable that.
“it may conceivably cause liver disease”
Conceivable
adjective
capable of being imagined or grasped mentally.
Conceivable
capable of being imagined or grasped mentally.
“a mass uprising was entirely conceivable”
Conceivable
capable of being imagined or grasped mentally.
“a mass uprising was entirely conceivable”
Interpolation
1.
the insertion of something of a different nature into something else.
“the interpolation of songs into the piece”
2.
a remark interjected in a conversation.
“as the evening progressed their interpolations became more ridiculous”
Counterpoise
a factor, force, or influence that balances or neutralizes another.
“they see the power of Brussels as a counterpoise to that of London”
verb
have an opposing and balancing effect on.
“excess on one hand is counterpoised by fundamental lack on the other”
Slur
verb 1. speak (words or speech) indistinctly so that the sounds run into one another. "he was slurring his words like a drunk" Similar: mumble speak unclearly garble stumble over stammer misarticulate Opposite: enunciate 2. MUSIC perform (a group of two or more notes) legato. "I can play it if I don't slur the notes" noun 1. an insinuation or allegation about someone that is likely to insult them or damage their reputation. "the comments were a slur on the staff" Similar: insult slight slander slanderous statement libel libelous statement misrepresentation defamation aspersion calumny smear allegation imputation insinuation innuendo 2. an act of speaking indistinctly so that sounds or words run into one another or a tendency to speak in such a way. "there was a mean slur in his voice"
Illegitimacy
the state of not being in accordance with accepted standards or rules; lack of authorization by the law.
“she talks with anger about the illegitimacy of the election”
2.
the state of being born to parents not lawfully married to each other.
“the citizens refuse to believe Buckingham’s stories about the princes’ illegitimacy”
Denote
be a sign of; indicate. "this mark denotes purity and quality" Similar: designate indicate be a sign of be a mark of signify signal symbolize represent stand for mean typify characterize distinguish mark identify bespeak betoken suggest point to be evidence of smack of conjure up bring to mind show reveal demonstrate intimate imply connote convey give away betray spell stand as a name or symbol for. "the level of output per firm, denoted by X"
Manure
noun animal dung used for fertilizing land. "plenty of fully rotted horse manure can be dug in this fall" Similar: dung muck droppings ordure guano cowpats cow chips horse apples vulgar slangshit crap verb apply manure to (land). "the ground should be well dug and manured"
Kiln
noun
a furnace or oven for burning, baking, or drying, especially one for calcining lime or firing pottery.
verb
burn, bake, or dry in a kiln.
Subsistence
noun 1. the action or fact of maintaining or supporting oneself at a minimum level. "the minimum income needed for subsistence" Similar: maintenance keep upkeep support livelihood living board room and board sustenance nourishment nutriment provisions supplies food food and drink fare bread vivers eats nosh chow grub scoff bread and butter comestibles provender meat vittles commons victuals viands aliment 2. LAW the state of remaining in force or effect. "rights of occupation normally only continue during the subsistence of the marriage"
Subsistence
noun 1. the action or fact of maintaining or supporting oneself at a minimum level. "the minimum income needed for subsistence" Similar: maintenance keep upkeep support livelihood living board room and board sustenance nourishment nutriment provisions supplies food food and drink fare bread vivers eats nosh chow grub scoff bread and butter comestibles provender meat vittles commons victuals viands aliment 2. LAW the state of remaining in force or effect. "rights of occupation normally only continue during the subsistence of the marriage"
Plausible
adjective (of an argument or statement) seeming reasonable or probable. "a plausible explanation" Similar: credible reasonable believable likely feasible probable tenable possible conceivable imaginable convincing persuasive cogent sound rational logical acceptable thinkable smooth-talking smooth-tongued smooth glib specious verisimilar colorable Opposite: unlikely improbable (of a person) skilled at producing persuasive arguments, especially ones intended to deceive. "a plausible liar
Rag
noun 1. a piece of old cloth, especially one torn from a larger piece, used typically for cleaning things. "he wiped his hands on an oily rag" Similar: piece of cloth bit/scrap/fragment of cloth cloth schmatte clout 2. INFORMAL a newspaper, typically one regarded as being of low quality. "the local rag"
Frisson
a sudden strong feeling of excitement or fear; a thrill.
“a frisson of excitement”
Lovelorn
unhappy because of unrequited love.
“a lovelorn teenager”
Christen
give (a baby) a Christian name at baptism as a sign of admission to a Christian Church. "their second daughter was christened Jeanette" Similar: baptize name give a name to give the name of call lustrate give to (someone or something) a name that reflects a notable quality or characteristic. "a person so creepy that his colleagues christened him “Millipede.”" Similar: call name dub style term designate label nickname refer to as give the name of denominate dedicate (a vessel, building, etc.) ceremonially. "their first garbage truck was christened with a bottle of champagne"
Dilapidated
(of a building or object) in a state of disrepair or ruin as a result of age or neglect.
“old, dilapidated buildings”
Vague
adjective comparative adjective: vaguer of uncertain, indefinite, or unclear character or meaning. "many patients suffer vague symptoms" Similar: indistinct indefinite indeterminate unclear hazy cloudy fuzzy misty lacking definition blurred blurry out of focus murky foggy faint shadowy dim obscure nebulous shapeless formless unformed amorphous nebulose uncertain undecided yet to be decided unsure unsettled unknown unestablished unconfirmed unresolved unascertained pending outstanding in the balance up in the air speculative absent-mindedness forgetfulness disorganization dreaminess inattention abstraction woolgathering empty-headedness giddiness confusion befuddlement Opposite: clear precise firm sharpness thinking or communicating in an unfocused or imprecise way. "he had been very vague about his activities"
Inducement
noun a thing that persuades or influences someone to do something. "companies were prepared to build only in return for massive inducements" Similar: incentive attraction encouragement temptation incitement stimulation stimulus bait lure pull draw spur goad impetus motive motivation provocation bribe reward carrot come-on sweetener perk douceur Opposite: deterrent a bribe. "it is claimed that she was offered an inducement to plead guilty" LAW introductory statements in a pleading explaining the matter in dispute.
Posh
adjective comparative adjective: posher elegant or stylishly luxurious. "a posh hotel" Similar: smart stylish upmarket fancy high-class fashionable chic luxurious luxury deluxe exclusive select sumptuous opulent lavish grand rich elegant ornate ostentatious showy high-toned upscale classy swanky snazzy plush plushy ritzy flash la-di-da fancy-pants swish swank tony larney swagger swell sprauncy derogatorychi-chi BRITISH of a high social class. "she has a very posh and refined voice"
Posh
adjective comparative adjective: posher elegant or stylishly luxurious. "a posh hotel" Similar: smart stylish upmarket fancy high-class fashionable chic luxurious luxury deluxe exclusive select sumptuous opulent lavish grand rich elegant ornate ostentatious showy high-toned upscale classy swanky snazzy plush plushy ritzy flash la-di-da fancy-pants swish swank tony larney swagger swell sprauncy derogatorychi-chi BRITISH of a high social class. "she has a very posh and refined voice"
Abut
verb
gerund or present participle: abutting
(of an area of land or a building) be next to or have a common boundary with.
“gardens abutting Prescott Street”
touch or lean on.
“masonry may crumble where a roof abuts it”
Vignette
noun
1.
a brief evocative description, account, or episode.
“a classic vignette of embassy life”
2.
a small illustration or portrait photograph which fades into its background without a definite border.
verb
portray (someone) in the style of a vignette.
Pertinent
adjective
relevant or applicable to a particular matter; apposite.
“she asked me a lot of very pertinent questions”
Camber
the slightly convex or arched shape of a road or other horizontal surface.
“the deck beams are curved for the camber of the deck”
BRITISH
a tilt built into a road at a bend or curve, enabling vehicles to maintain speed.
the slight sideways inclination of the front wheels of a motor vehicle.
“suspension changes include a wider front and rear track with increased negative camber for better cornering grip”
Russet
reddish brown in color.
“gardens of russet and gold chrysanthemums”
2.
ARCHAIC
rustic; homely.
“that terse and epigrammatic style, with its russet Saxon”
noun
1.
a reddish-brown color.
“the woods in autumn are a riot of russet and gold”
2.
a dessert apple of a variety with a slightly rough greenish-brown skin.
verb
make or become russet in color.
Raptor
a bird of prey, e.g., an eagle, hawk, falcon, or owl.
INFORMAL
a dromaeosaurid dinosaur, especially velociraptor or utahraptor.
Excursus
a detailed discussion of a particular point in a book, usually in an appendix.
a digression in a written text.
Indelible
(of ink or a pen) making marks that cannot be removed. "an indelible marker pen" Similar: ineradicable inerasable ineffaceable unexpungeable indestructible permanent lasting persisting enduring stubborn ingrained unfading imperishable unforgettable haunting memorable not/never to be forgotten Opposite: erasable not able to be forgotten or removed. "his story made an indelible impression on me"
Percussion
1.
musical instruments played by striking with the hand or with a handheld or pedal-operated stick or beater, or by shaking, including drums, cymbals, xylophones, gongs, bells, and rattles.
“percussion instruments”
2.
the striking of one solid object with or against another with some degree of force.
“the clattering percussion of objects striking the walls and the shutters”
Advent
the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event. "the advent of television" Similar: arrival appearance emergence materialization surfacing occurrence dawn origin birth rise development approach coming looming nearing advance Opposite: departure disappearance the first season of the Christian church year, leading up to Christmas and including the four preceding Sundays. noun: Advent CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY the coming or second coming of Christ. noun: Advent
Extraneous
irrelevant or unrelated to the subject being dealt with. "one is obliged to wade through many pages of extraneous material" Similar: irrelevant immaterial beside the point not to the point neither here nor there nothing to do with it not pertinent not germane not to the purpose off the subject unrelated unconnected inapposite inappropriate inapplicable inconsequential incidental pointless out of place wide of the mark peripheral tangential Opposite: material of external origin. "when the transmitter pack is turned off, no extraneous noise is heard" Similar: external outside exterior extrinsic outward adventitious alien foreign Opposite: intrinsic separate from the object to which it is attached. "other insects attach extraneous objects or material to themselves"
Ascendancy
occupation of a position of dominant power or influence.
“the ascendancy of good over evil”
Bestiary
a descriptive or anecdotal treatise on various real or mythical kinds of animals, especially a medieval work with a moralizing tone.
Emblematic
serving as a symbol of a particular quality or concept; symbolic.
“this case is emblematic of a larger problem”
Miscellany
a group or collection of different items; a mixture. "Talkeetna was a random miscellany of log cabins" Similar: assortment mixture melange blend variety mixed bag mix medley diversity collection selection assemblage combination motley collection pot-pourri conglomeration jumble mess confusion mishmash hotchpotch hodgepodge ragbag pastiche patchwork farrago hash scissors-and-paste job gallimaufry omnium gatherum olio salmagundi macédoine a book containing a collection of pieces of writing by different authors.
Vignette
noun
1.
a brief evocative description, account, or episode.
“a classic vignette of embassy life”
2.
a small illustration or portrait photograph which fades into its background without a definite border.
verb
portray (someone) in the style of a vignette.
Bestiary
noun
a descriptive or anecdotal treatise on various real or mythical kinds of animals, especially a medieval work with a moralizing tone.
Quill
noun
1.
any of the main wing or tail feathers of a bird.
2.
the hollow sharp spines of a porcupine, hedgehog, or other spiny mammal.
verb
form (fabric) into small cylindrical folds.
Covert
adjective /ˈkōvərt,kōˈvərt/ not openly acknowledged or displayed. "covert operations against the dictatorship" Similar: secret furtive clandestine surreptitious stealthy cloak-and-dagger hole-and-corner hole-in-the-corner closet behind-the-scenes backstairs back-alley under-the-table hugger-mugger concealed hidden private sly sneaky underhand undercover underground black hush-hush Opposite: overt above board noun /ˈkəvər(t),ˈkōvərt/ 1. a thicket in which game can hide. 2. ORNITHOLOGY any of the feathers covering the bases of the main flight or tail feathers of a bird.
Torrent
a strong and fast-moving stream of water or other liquid. "rain poured down in torrents" Similar: flood deluge inundation spate cascade rush stream current gushing flow overflow tide fountain downpour rainstorm rain shower Opposite: trickle drop a sudden, violent, and copious outpouring of (something, typically words or feelings). "she was subjected to a torrent of abuse"
Render
verb 1. provide or give (a service, help, etc.). "money serves as a reward for services rendered" Similar: give provide supply furnish make available contribute offer extend proffer show display exhibit evince manifest 2. cause to be or become; make. "the rains rendered his escape impossible" Similar: make cause to be/become leave noun a first coat of plaster applied to a brick or stone surface.
Conjecture
noun an opinion or conclusion formed on the basis of incomplete information. "conjectures about the newcomer were many and varied" Similar: guess speculation surmise fancy notion belief suspicion presumption assumption theory hypothesis postulation supposition inference extrapolation projection approximation estimate rough calculation rough idea guesswork guessing surmising imagining theorizing guesstimate shot in the dark ballpark figure Opposite: fact verb form an opinion or supposition about (something) on the basis of incomplete information. "many conjectured that the jury could not agree"
Incestuous
adjective
1.
involving or guilty of incest.
“the child of an incestuous relationship”
2.
(of human relations generally) excessively close and resistant to outside influence.
“the incestuous nature of literary journalism”
Undertone
noun plural noun: undertones a subdued or muted tone of sound or color. "they were talking in undertones" Similar: low voice murmur whisper mutter low tones hushed tones Opposite: shout an underlying quality or feeling. "the sexual undertones of most advertising"
Discernible
adjective
able to be discerned; perceptible.
“the scandal had no discernible effect on his career”
Discern
verb
perceive or recognize (something).
“I can discern no difference between the two policies”
distinguish (someone or something) with difficulty by sight or with the other senses.
“she could faintly discern the shape of a skull”
Ambit
the scope, extent, or bounds of something.
“within the ambit of federal law”
Virtuoso
noun a person highly skilled in music or another artistic pursuit. "a celebrated clarinet virtuoso" Similar: genius expert master master hand artist maestro prodigy marvel adept past master specialist skilled person professional doyen authority veteran star champion wunderkind hotshot wizard wiz whiz whiz kid alpha geek ninja buff pro ace something else something to shout about something to write home about dab hand maven crackerjack proficient skillful accomplished masterly consummate talented gifted adroit dexterous deft able good competent capable efficient experienced polished well versed smart clever artful impressive outstanding exceptional exceptionally good magnificent supreme first-rate first-class fine brilliant excellent dazzling bravura superb out of this world stellar mean crack A1 badass vulgar slangshit-hot Opposite: beginner amateur duffer inexpert incompetent a person with a special knowledge of or interest in works of art or curios.
Vaunting
adjective
of a boastful nature.
“she expresses vaunting literary ambition”
Profusion
noun
an abundance or large quantity of something.
“a rich profusion of wildflowers”
Torque
noun
1.
MECHANICS
a twisting force that tends to cause rotation.
“the three-liter engine has lots of torque”
2.
variant spelling of torc.
verb
apply torque or a twisting force to (an object).
“he gently torqued the hip joint”
Slithery
: having an unpleasantly slippery surface, feeling, or quality. : having a flowing and smooth look or way of moving.
Rind
noun the tough outer skin of certain fruit, especially citrus fruit. "decorate with fine shreds of orange rind" Similar: skin peel covering zest hull pod shell husk crust shuck capsule outer layer bark hide epicarp pericarp exocarp integument verb strip the bark from (a tree). "when the meat ran out they had to rind trees and chew the inner bark for nourishment"
Osier
noun 1. a small Eurasian willow that grows mostly in wet habitats and is a major source of the long flexible shoots (withies) used in basketwork. 2. US any of several North American dogwoods.
Epigram
noun a pithy saying or remark expressing an idea in a clever and amusing way. "a Wildean epigram" Similar: quip witticism gem play on words jest pun sally nice turn of phrase bon mot double entendre jeu d'esprit one-liner gag crack wisecrack paronomasia equivoque proverb saying maxim adage axiom aphorism saw gnome dictum precept epigraph motto catchphrase cliché truism commonplace words of wisdom pearls of wisdom (old) chestnut apothegm a short poem, especia
Epigraph
an inscription on a building, statue, or coin.
a short quotation or saying at the beginning of a book or chapter, intended to suggest its theme.
Pliability
noun
the quality of being easily bent; flexibility.
“an excellent combination of strength, pliability, and elasticity”
Wickerwork
furniture or other items made of wicker.
pliable twigs, typically of willow, plaited or woven to make items such as furniture and baskets.
“a wicker chair”
Emblem
pliable twigs, typically of willow, plaited or woven to make items such as furniture and baskets.
“a wicker chair”
Courtier
a person who attends a royal court as a companion or adviser to the king or queen.
Plaited
past tense: plaited; past participle: plaited
form (hair or other material) into a plait or plaits.
“her hair had been plaited and coiled at the back of her head”
make (something) by forming material into a plait or plaits.
“a basket plaited from strips of flax”
Entwine
wind or twist together; interweave.
“they lay entwined in each other’s arms”
Intricacy
the quality of being intricate.
“the exquisite intricacy of Indian silverwork”
details, especially of an involved or perplexing subject.
plural noun: intricacies
“the intricacies of economic policymaking”
Foliage
plant leaves collectively.
“healthy green foliage”
Circuitous
(of a route or journey) longer than the most direct way.
“the canal followed a circuitous route”
Brisk
adjective active, fast, and energetic. "a good brisk walk" Similar: quick rapid fast swift speedy fleet-footed hasty hurried urgent energetic lively vigorous sharp agile nimble spry sprightly spirited nippy snappy alacritous busy bustling active vibrant hectic good Opposite: sluggish slow quiet sharp or abrupt. "the brisk, dismissive nod of her head" Similar: no-nonsense decisive businesslike brusque abrupt short sharp curt crisp blunt terse snappy snappish gruff rude discourteous uncivil (of the weather or wind) cold but fresh and enlivening. "the sea was shimmering and heaving beneath the brisk breeze"
Dissection
the action of dissecting a body or plant to study its internal parts. "the dissection of animals for scientific research" Similar: cutting up cutting open dismemberment autopsy postmortem necropsy anatomy vivisection zootomy analysis examination study inspection scrutiny scrutinization probe probing exploration investigation inquiry evaluation assessment criticism breakdown deconstruction very detailed analysis of a text or idea. "this dissection of modern relationships"
Apocryphal
(of a story or statement) of doubtful authenticity, although widely circulated as being true.
Equestrian
relating to horse riding.
“his amazing equestrian skills”
noun
a rider or performer on horseback.
Flail
noun a threshing tool consisting of a wooden staff with a short heavy stick swinging from it. verb 1. wave or swing or cause to wave or swing wildly. "his arms were flailing helplessly" Similar: wave swing thrash around flap around beat around windmill move erratically 2. beat; flog. "he escorted them, flailing their shoulders with his cane"
Ingratiating
intended to gain approval or favor; sycophantic.
Addendum
1. an item of additional material, typically omissions, added at the end of a book or other publication. Similar: appendix codicil postscript afterword tailpiece rider coda supplement accompaniment adjunct appendage addition add-on attachment extension postlude subscript allonge 2. ENGINEERING the radial distance from the pitch circle of a cogwheel, worm wheel, etc., to the crests of the teeth or ridges.
Reprise
noun
a repeated passage in music.
verb
repeat (a piece of music or a performance).
“he reprises his role as the vigilante architect”
Ramble
verb 1. walk for pleasure, typically without a definite route. "I spent most of my spare time rambling and climbing" Similar: walk take a walk go for a walk hike tramp backpack trek wander stroll saunter amble drift roam range rove traipse jaunt stravaig mosey tootle pootle vagabond perambulate peregrinate 2. talk or write at length in a confused or inconsequential way. "he rambled on about his acting career"
Embed
verb 1. fix (an object) firmly and deeply in a surrounding mass. "he had an operation to remove a nail embedded in his chest" Similar: implant plant set fix lodge root insert place sink submerge immerse drive in hammer in ram in 2. attach (a journalist) to a military unit during a conflict. "the CNN correspondent is now embedded with the US Navy aboard the USS Constellation" noun /ˈembed/ an embedded journalist. "most of the embeds found themselves covering construction and civil works projects"
Precipitous
adjective 1. dangerously high or steep. "the precipitous cliffs of the North Atlantic coast" Similar: steep sheer high perpendicular abrupt sharp dizzy vertiginous vertical bluff acclivitous declivitous 2. (of an action) done suddenly and without careful consideration. "precipitous intervention"
Craggy
(of a landscape) having many crags. "a craggy coastline" (of a cliff or rock face) rough and uneven. Similar: rocky rough ragged rugged uneven bumpy stony irregular pitted broken up jagged precipitous cragged rock-bound Opposite: smooth (of a person's face, typically a man's) rugged and rough-textured in an attractive way.
Bristling
(especially of hair) close-set, stiff, and spiky.
“a bristling beard”
2.
aggressively brisk or tense.
“he fills the screen with a restless, bristling energy”
Promontory
a point of high land that juts out into a large body of water; a headland. "a rocky promontory" Similar: headland point cape head foreland horn spit hook bill ness naze peninsula bluff cliff precipice prominence projection overhang height ridge spur mull ANATOMY a prominence or protuberance on an organ or other structure in the body.
Vista
a pleasing view, especially one seen through a long, narrow opening. "a vista of church spires" Similar: view prospect panorama aspect perspective spectacle sight scenery landscape seascape riverscape townscape cityscape snowscape outlook a mental view of a succession of remembered or anticipated events. "vistas of freedom seemed to open ahead of him"
Conical
having the shape of a cone.
Tump
nounDIALECT 1. a small rounded hill or mound; a tumulus. 2. a clump of trees, shrubs, or grass.
Extrude
thrust or force out. "lava was being extruded from the volcano" Similar: force out thrust out squeeze out express press out eject expel release give off emit void exude excrete Opposite: suck in shape (a material such as metal or plastic) by forcing it through a die. "extruded and die-cast aluminum"
Awning
a sheet of canvas or other material stretched on a frame and used to keep the sun or rain off a storefront, window, doorway, or deck.
Shroud
noun 1. a length of cloth or an enveloping garment in which a dead person is wrapped for burial. "he was buried in a linen shroud" Similar: winding sheet grave clothes burial clothes cerements chrisom 2. a thing that envelops or obscures something. "a shroud of mist" Similar: covering cover pall cloak mask mantle blanket sheet layer overlay envelope cloud veil screen curtain canopy verb 1. wrap or dress (a body) in a shroud for burial. "the body was washed and shrouded" 2. cover or envelop so as to conceal from view. "mountains shrouded by cloud"
Taffeta
a fine lustrous silk or similar synthetic fabric with a crisp texture.
Intone
say or recite with little rise and fall of the pitch of the voice.
“he intoned a short Latin prayer”
Jauntiness
the quality of seeming happy and confident:
Elusive
difficult to find, catch, or achieve. "success will become ever more elusive" Similar: difficult to catch/find difficult to track down evasive slippery shifty always on the move cagey difficult to remember or recall.
Interpose
place or insert between one thing and another.
“he interposed himself between her and the top of the stairs”
Similar:
insinuate
place
put
2.
intervene between parties.
“the legislature interposed to suppress these amusements”
Equivocate
use ambiguous language so as to conceal the truth or avoid committing oneself.
““Not that we are aware of,” she equivocated”
Impart
verb make (information) known; communicate. "teachers had a duty to impart strong morals to their students" Similar: communicate pass on convey transmit relay relate recount set forth present tell make known make public go public with report announce proclaim spread disseminate circulate promulgate broadcast disclose reveal divulge bring into the open let on about tell all about blab spill discover unbosom Opposite: keep to oneself bestow (a quality). "its main use has been to impart a high surface gloss to finished articles"
Gnomic
expressed in or of the nature of short, pithy maxims or aphorisms.
“that most gnomic form, the aphorism”
enigmatic; ambiguous.
“I had to have the gnomic response interpreted for me”
Maiolica
fine earthenware with colored decoration on an opaque white tin glaze, originating in Italy during the Renaissance.
Presume
1. suppose that something is the case on the basis of probability. "I presumed that the man had been escorted from the building" Similar: assume suppose dare say imagine take it expect believe think surmise guess judge trust conjecture speculate postulate posit hypothesize deduce divine infer conclude presuppose take for granted take as read 2. be audacious enough to do something. "kindly don't presume to issue me orders in my own house"
Percolate
(of a liquid or gas) filter gradually through a porous surface or substance. "the water percolating through the soil may leach out minerals" Similar: filter drain drip ooze seep trickle dribble strain leak leach filtrate transude 2. (of coffee) be prepared in a percolator. "he put some coffee on to percolate"
Bas-relief
a sculpture, carving, or molding in bas-relief.
Heyday
the period of a person’s or thing’s greatest success, popularity, or vigor.
“the paper has lost millions of readers since its heyday in 1964”
AField
adverb 1. to or at a distance. "competitors from as far afield as Hong Kong" 2. in the field (in reference to hunting). "the satisfaction of a day afield"
Silt
fine sand, clay, or other material carried by running water and deposited as a sediment, especially in a channel or harbor. Similar: sediment deposit alluvium mud slime ooze sludge sand clay clag verb become filled or blocked with silt. "the river's mouth had silted up"
Hulk
an old ship stripped of fittings and permanently moored, especially for use as storage or (formerly) as a prison. Similar: wreck shipwreck ruin shell skeleton hull frame framework derelict 2. a large or unwieldy boat or other object. "great towering hulks of oak, ash, and chestnut"
Grandeur
splendor and impressiveness, especially of appearance or style. "the austere grandeur of mountain scenery" Similar: splendor magnificence impressiveness glory gloriousness resplendence splendidness superbness majesty greatness stateliness pomp pomp and circumstance ceremony ceremonial ceremoniousness high rank or social importance. "for all their grandeur, the chancellors were still officials of the household"
Autodidactic
Description
Autodidacticism or self-education is education without the guidance of masters or institutions. Generally, autodidacts are individuals who choose the subject they will study, their studying material, and the studying rhythm and time.
Pilfer
steal (typically things of relatively little value).
“she produced the handful of coins she had managed to pilfer”
Florid
having a red or flushed complexion. "a stout man with a florid face" Similar: ruddy red red-faced reddish rosy rosy-cheeked pink pinkish roseate rubicund healthy-looking glowing fresh flushed blushing high-colored blowsy sanguine erubescent rubescent Opposite: pale 2. elaborately or excessively intricate or complicated. "florid operatic-style music was out"
Defiant
showing defiance.
“she was in a defiant mood”
Defiance
open resistance; bold disobedience.
“the demonstration was held in defiance of official warnings”
Sinister
giving the impression that something harmful or evil is happening or will happen. "there was something sinister about that murmuring voice" Similar: menacing threatening ominous forbidding baleful frightening eerie alarming disturbing disquieting dark black suggestive of evil evil-looking ill-omened inauspicious unpropitious portentous eldritch spooky scary creepy minatory minacious minatorial bodeful direful sinistrous 2. ARCHAIC•HERALDRY of, on, or toward the left-hand side (in a coat of arms, from the bearer's point of view, i.e., the right as it is depicted).
Intaglio
a design incised or engraved into a material.
“the dies bore a design in intaglio”
verb
engrave or represent by an engraving.
Marquetry
inlaid work made from small pieces of variously colored wood or other materials, used chiefly for the decoration of furniture.
“a restored marquetry table top”
Galore
in abundance.
“there were prizes galore for everything”
Dowdy
comparative adjective: dowdier
(of a person or their clothes) unfashionable and without style in appearance (typically used of a woman).
“she could achieve the kind of casual chic that made every other woman around her look dowdy”
Intaglio
a design incised or engraved into a material.
“the dies bore a design in intaglio”
verb
engrave or represent by an engraving.
Marquetry
inlaid work made from small pieces of variously colored wood or other materials, used chiefly for the decoration of furniture.
“a restored marquetry table top”
Galore
in abundance.
“there were prizes galore for everything”
Dowdy
adjective
comparative adjective: dowdier
(of a person or their clothes) unfashionable and without style in appearance (typically used of a woman).
“she could achieve the kind of casual chic that made every other woman around her look dowdy”
Mien
a person’s look or manner, especially one of a particular kind indicating their character or mood.
“he has a cautious, academic mien”
Cupola
a small dome, especially a small dome on a drum on top of a larger dome, adorning a roof or ceiling.
a gun turret; a small domed hatch above a gun turret on some tanks.
a cylindrical furnace for refining metals, with openings at the bottom for blowing in air and originally with a dome leading to a chimney above.
noun: cupola furnace; plural noun: cupola furnaces
Vignette
a brief evocative description, account, or episode.
“a classic vignette of embassy life”
2.
a small illustration or portrait photograph which fades into its background without a definite border.
verb
portray (someone) in the style of a vignette.
Draftman
noun: draughtsman 1. a person who makes detailed technical plans or drawings. 2. a person who drafts legal documents.
Teem
gerund or present participle: teeming
be full of or swarming with.
“every garden is teeming with wildlife”
Odoriferous
having or giving off a smell, especially an unpleasant or distinctive one.
“an odoriferous pile of fish remains”
Retort
say something in answer to a remark or accusation, typically in a sharp, angry, or wittily incisive manner. "“No need to be rude,” retorted Isabel" Similar: answer reply respond say in response acknowledge return counter rejoin riposte retaliate hurl back fling back snap back round on someone come back 2. ARCHAIC repay (an insult or injury). "it was now his time to retort the humiliation" noun a sharp, angry, or wittily incisive reply to a remark. "she opened her mouth to make a suitably cutting retort"
Despotic
of or typical of a despot; tyrannical.
“a despotic regime”
Opulence
great wealth or luxuriousness.
“rooms of spectacular opulence”
Decadent
adjective characterized by or reflecting a state of moral or cultural decline. "a decaying, decadent Britain" Similar: dissolute dissipated degenerate corrupt depraved louche rakish shameless sinful unprincipled immoral licentious wanton abandoned unrestrained profligate intemperate fast-living sybaritic voluptuary epicurean hedonistic pleasure-seeking indulgent self-indulgent Opposite: moral noun a person who is luxuriously self-indulgent. "for half a million dollars, he offers rich decadents the chance to lead a deadly safari"
Somber
adjective adjective: sombre dark or dull in color or tone; gloomy. "the night skies were somber and starless" Similar: dark dark-colored dull dull-colored drab dingy shady restrained subdued sober funereal severe austere Opposite: bright oppressively solemn or sober in mood; grave. "he looked at her with a somber expression"
Fresco
noun
a painting done rapidly in watercolor on wet plaster on a wall or ceiling, so that the colors penetrate the plaster and become fixed as it dries.
verb
paint in fresco.
“four scenes had been frescoed on the wall”
Chamberlain
HISTORICAL
an officer who manages the household of a monarch or noble.
BRITISH
the treasurer of a corporation or public body.
Clan
noun a group of close-knit and interrelated families (especially associated with families in the Scottish Highlands). "the clan Macleod" Similar: group of families sept gens family house dynasty tribe line sib kinship group a family, especially a large one. "the Kennedy clan gathered for the celebration" Similar: group of families sept gens family house dynasty tribe line sib kinship group a group of people with a strong common interest. "New York's garrulous clan of artists"
Apothecary
nounARCHAIC
a person who prepared and sold medicines and drugs.
Grumble
complain about something in a bad-tempered way. "his father was grumbling that he hadn't heard from him" Similar: complain moan groan whine mutter grouse bleat carp cavil protest object to speak out against find fault with mither twine bellyache beef bitch grouch sound off go on pick holes in whinge gripe grizzle chunter create kvetch chirp crib natter plain over 2. make a low rumbling sound. "thunder was grumbling somewhere in the distance" Similar: rumble gurgle murmur growl roar noun 1. a complaint. "the main grumble is that he spends too much time away" Similar: complaint moan groan whine muttering grievance objection protest protestation cavil quibble criticism charge accusation grouse grouch beef beefing bellyaching bitching grouching whinge gripe whingeing plaint 2. a low rumbling sound. "in the distance, I heard a grumble of thunder"
Cornice
noun
1.
an ornamental molding around the wall of a room just below the ceiling.
2.
an overhanging mass of hardened snow at the edge of a mountain precipice.
Trench
noun a long, narrow ditch. Similar: ditch channel trough excavation pit furrow rut conduit cut drain waterway watercourse earthwork entrenchment moat fosse sap verb 1. dig a trench or trenches in (the ground). "she trenched the terrace to a depth of 6 feet" 2. ARCHAIC border closely on; encroach on. "this would surely trench very far on the dignity and liberty of citizens"
Sketchy
adjective 1. not thorough or detailed. "the information they had was sketchy" Similar: incomplete inadequate limited patchy scrappy bitty fragmentary rudimentary superficial cursory perfunctory slight scanty skimpy meager insufficient vague imprecise fuzzy hurried hasty provisional on the back of an envelope Opposite: detailed exhaustive full 2. INFORMAL•NORTH AMERICAN dishonest or disreputable. "once the story does come out, the fact that you tried to hide it will seem sketchy"
Rusticate
1.
go to, live in, or spend time in the country.
2.
fashion (masonry) in large blocks with sunk joints and a roughened surface.
“the stable block was built of rusticated stone”
Meritocratic
relating to or characteristic of a society in which power is held by people selected according to merit.
“such privileges are breaches in the ideal of a meritocratic democracy”
Topographical
adjective
relating to the arrangement or accurate representation of the physical features of an area.
“the topographical features of the river valley”
(of a work of art or an artist) dealing with or depicting places (especially towns), buildings, and natural prospects in a realistic and detailed manner.
ANATOMY•BIOLOGY
relating to or representing the physical distribution of parts or features on the surface of or within an organ or organism.
Irascible
adjective
having or showing a tendency to be easily angered.
“an irascible man”
Agitator
a person who urges others to protest or rebel. "an activist and agitator who fought for striking miners" Similar: troublemaker rabble-rouser demagogue soapbox orator incendiary revolutionary firebrand rebel insurgent revolutionist subversive instigator inciter provoker fomenter dissentient agent provocateur stirrer 2. an apparatus for stirring liquid, as in a washing machine or a photographic developing tank.
Backdrop
noun
a painted cloth hung at the back of a theater stage as part of the scenery.
verb
provide a background or setting for.
“an ornate fountain, and at its center, backdropped with golden spray, a statue of a young girl”
Amid
preposition surrounded by; in the middle of. "our dream home, set amid magnificent rolling countryside" Similar: in the middle of surrounded by among amongst between in the thick of amidst in the midst of Opposite: surrounding in an atmosphere or against a background of. "talks broke down amid accusations of a hostile takeover bid"
Vicissitude
noun a change of circumstances or fortune, typically one that is unwelcome or unpleasant. "her husband's sharp vicissitudes of fortune" Similar: change alteration alternation transformation metamorphosis transmutation mutation modification transition development shift switch turn reversal reverse downturn inconstancy instability uncertainty unpredictability chanciness fickleness variability changeability fluctuation vacillation ups and downs LITERARY alternation between opposite or contrasting things. "the vicissitude of the seasons"
Depict
verb show or represent by a drawing, painting, or other art form. "paintings depicting Old Testament scenes" Similar: portray represent picture illustrate delineate outline reproduce render draw paint sketch draft limn portray in words; describe. "youth is depicted as a time of vitality and good health"
Bumpkin
an unsophisticated or socially awkward person from the countryside.
“she thought Tom a bit of a country bumpkin”
Bamboozle
verbINFORMAL fool or cheat (someone). "Tom Sawyer bamboozled the neighborhood boys into doing it for him" Similar: trick deceive delude hoodwink mislead take in dupe fool double-cross cheat defraud swindle outwit outmaneuver catch out gull hoax beguile entrap con bilk diddle rook put one over on pull a fast one on take for a ride lead up the garden path spoof shaft do have gyp flimflam sucker snooker goldbrick give someone a bum steer pull a swifty on cozen chicane sell illude confound or perplex. "bamboozled by the number of savings plans being offered"
Bamboozle
fool or cheat (someone). "Tom Sawyer bamboozled the neighborhood boys into doing it for him" Similar: trick deceive delude hoodwink mislead take in dupe fool double-cross cheat defraud swindle outwit outmaneuver catch out gull hoax beguile entrap con bilk diddle rook put one over on pull a fast one on take for a ride lead up the garden path spoof shaft do have gyp flimflam sucker snooker goldbrick give someone a bum steer pull a swifty on cozen chicane sell illude confound or perplex. "bamboozled by the number of savings plans being offered"
Notarial
Legal Definition of notarial
: of, relating to, or characteristic of a notary public
also : done, executed, framed, or taken by a notary public
notarial documents
Multifarious
adjective many and of various types. "multifarious activities" having many varied parts or aspects. "a vast multifarious organization"
Uncongenial
adjective
(of a person) not friendly or pleasant to be with.
“uncongenial dining companions”
unsuitable and therefore unlikely to promote success or well-being.
“the religious climate proved uncongenial to such ideas”
Envisage
adjective
(of a person) not friendly or pleasant to be with.
“uncongenial dining companions”
unsuitable and therefore unlikely to promote success or well-being.
“the religious climate proved uncongenial to such ideas”
Perennial
adjective lasting or existing for a long or apparently infinite time; enduring or continually recurring. "his perennial distrust of the media" Similar: everlasting perpetual eternal continuing unending never-ending endless undying ceaseless abiding enduring lasting persisting permanent constant continual unfailing unchanging never-changing noun a perennial plant. "perennials will transform the garden in summer"
Influx
noun 1. an arrival or entry of large numbers of people or things. "a massive influx of tourists" Similar: inundation inrush rush stream flood incursion ingress invasion intrusion 2. an inflow of water into a river, lake, or the sea. "the lakes are fed by influxes of meltwater"
Byzantine
adjective
1.
relating to Byzantium (now Istanbul), the Byzantine Empire, or the Eastern Orthodox Church.
2.
(of a system or situation) excessively complicated, and typically involving a great deal of administrative detail.
“Byzantine insurance regulations”
noun
a citizen of Byzantium or the Byzantine Empire.
Percolate
verb 1. (of a liquid or gas) filter gradually through a porous surface or substance. "the water percolating through the soil may leach out minerals" Similar: filter drain drip ooze seep trickle dribble strain leak leach filtrate transude 2. (of coffee) be prepared in a percolator. "he put some coffee on to percolate"
Revival
noun an improvement in the condition or strength of something. "a revival in the fortunes of the party" Similar: improvement rallying picking up betterment amelioration turn for the better advance rally upturn upswing comeback resurgence renewal Opposite: downturn an instance of something becoming popular, active, or important again. "cross-country skiing is enjoying a revival" Similar: comeback bringing back re-establishment reintroduction restoration reappearance resurrection resuscitation relaunch reinstallation regeneration revitalization reinvigoration awakening rejuvenation stimulation rebirth renaissance renascence Opposite: disappearance a new production of an old play or similar work.
Rinascimento
HISTORY (MOVIMENTO)
Renaissance
Genealogy
noun a line of descent traced continuously from an ancestor. "combing through the birth records and genealogies" Similar: pedigree ancestry descent lineage line line of descent family tree extraction derivation origin heritage parentage paternity birth family dynasty house race strain stock breed blood bloodline history background roots stirps filiation stemma the study and tracing of lines of descent or development. a plant's or animal's line of evolutionary development from earlier forms.
Mould
noun noun: mould 1. a hollow container used to give shape to molten or hot liquid material (such as wax or metal) when it cools and hardens. "the smith would pour the molten metal into the shaped mold" Similar: cast die form matrix shape container framework template pattern frame 2. a distinctive and typical style, form, or character. "he planned to conquer the world as a roving reporter in the mold of his hero" Similar: character nature temperament temper disposition cast/turn of mind mettle caliber kind sort variety stamp type kidney grain ilk verb verb: mould 1. form (an object) out of malleable material. "a Connecticut inventor molded a catamaran out of polystyrene foam" Similar: shape form fashion model work construct frame make create configure manufacture design sculpt sculpture throw forge cast die-cast stamp print impress emboss deboss engrave etch 2. influence the formation or development of. "he was instrumental in molding the policy and ideals of the journal"
Brim
noun the projecting edge at the bottom of a hat. "a soft hat with a turned-up brim" Similar: peak visor bill projection shield shade verb be full to the point of overflowing. "my eyes brimmed with tears"
Luminary
noun 1. a person who inspires or influences others, especially one prominent in a particular sphere. "one of the luminaries of child psychiatry" Similar: leading light guiding light inspiration leader expert master panjandrum dignitary VIP star superstar megastar celebrity celebutante big name household name somebody name notable public figure important personage lion legend great giant bigwig big shot big cheese biggie celeb Opposite: nobody pleb 2. ARCHAIC a natural light-giving body, especially the sun or moon.
Coterie
noun
a small group of people with shared interests or tastes, especially one that is exclusive of other people.
“a coterie of friends and advisers”
Reverberate
(of a loud noise) be repeated several times as an echo. "her deep booming laugh reverberated around the room" Similar: resound echo re-echo repeat resonate pulsate vibrate ring peal boom rumble roll pound thump drum thrum (of a place) appear to vibrate or be disturbed because of a loud noise. "the hall reverberated with gaiety and laughter" ARCHAIC return or re-echo (a sound). "oft did the cliffs reverberate the sound"
Epithet
noun an adjective or descriptive phrase expressing a quality characteristic of the person or thing mentioned. "old men are often unfairly awarded the epithet “dirty.”" Similar: sobriquet nickname byname title name label tag description designation denomination characterization identification moniker handle appellation cognomen anonym an epithet as a term of abuse. "people jeered and hurled racial epithets"
Rigor
noun: rigour
the quality of being extremely thorough, exhaustive, or accurate.
“his analysis is lacking in rigor”
severity or strictness.
“the full rigor of the law”
demanding, difficult, or extreme conditions.
plural noun: rigors; plural noun: rigours
“the rigors of a harsh winter”
Synopsis
noun a brief summary or general survey of something. "a synopsis of the accident" Similar: summary precis résumé abstract outline condensation digest summarization summing-up rundown roundup abridgment review sketch compendium conspectus an outline of the plot of a book, play, movie, or episode of a television show.
Avatar
noun
1.
HINDUISM
a manifestation of a deity or released soul in bodily form on earth; an incarnate divine teacher.
2.
an icon or figure representing a particular person in video games, internet forums, etc.
“conversation is depicted in a balloon over the avatar’s head”
Stratum
plural noun: strata 1. a layer or a series of layers of rock in the ground. "a stratum of flint" Similar: layer vein seam lode bed stratification thickness sheet lamina 2. a level or class to which people are assigned according to their social status, education, or income. "members of other social strata"
Vigil
noun
1.
a period of keeping awake during the time usually spent asleep, especially to keep watch or pray.
“my birdwatching vigils lasted for hours”
2.
(in the Christian Church) the eve of a festival or holy day as an occasion of religious observance.
Cartographer
noun
a person who draws or produces maps.
“a cartographer in the British army”
Impinge
verb have an effect or impact, especially a negative one. "Nora was determined that the tragedy would impinge as little as possible on Constance's life" Similar: affect have an effect on have a bearing on touch influence exert influence on make an impression on make an impact on leave a mark on advance over an area belonging to someone or something else; encroach. "the site impinges on a greenbelt area" Similar: encroach on intrude on infringe invade trespass on obtrude into make inroads into cut through interfere with violate muscle in on entrench on PHYSICS strike. "the gases impinge on the surface of the liquid"
Cerebral
adjective 1. of the cerebrum of the brain. "a cerebral hemorrhage" 2. PHONETICS another term for retroflex.
Retroflex
adjective: retroflex; adjective: retroflexed
ANATOMY•MEDICINE
turned backward.
“retroflex fibers”
PHONETICS
pronounced with the tip of the tongue curled up toward the hard palate.
“the retroflex /r/”
Percolate
1. (of a liquid or gas) filter gradually through a porous surface or substance. "the water percolating through the soil may leach out minerals" Similar: filter drain drip ooze seep trickle dribble strain leak leach filtrate transude 2. (of coffee) be prepared in a percolator. "he put some coffee on to percolate"
Pictorial
adjective of or expressed in pictures; illustrated. "feelings presented in a pictorial form" Similar: illustrated with illustrations with pictures with drawings with sketches in pictures in picture form in photographs photographic graphic representational depictive illustrative drawn noun a newspaper or periodical with pictures as a main feature.
Unremitting
adjective
never relaxing or slackening; incessant.
Guild
noun a medieval association of craftsmen or merchants, often having considerable power. an association of people for mutual aid or the pursuit of a common goal. Similar: association society union league alliance coalition federation consortium syndicate combine trust organization company cooperative partnership fellowship club order lodge sisterhood sorority brotherhood fraternity consociation sodality ECOLOGY a group of species that have similar requirements and play a similar role within a community.
Ambit
noun
the scope, extent, or bounds of something.
“within the ambit of federal law”
Trope
noun
a figurative or metaphorical use of a word or expression.
verb
create a trope.
Parish
verb suffer death, typically in a violent, sudden, or untimely way. "a great part of his army perished of hunger and disease" Similar: die lose one's life be killed fall expire meet one's death be lost lay down one's life breathe one's last draw one's last breath pass away go the way of all flesh give up the ghost go to glory meet one's maker go to one's last resting place cross the great divide bite the dust kick the bucket cash in one's chips croak flatline turn up one's toes shuffle off this mortal coil go the way of the dinosaurs conk out buy it snuff it peg out pop one's clogs hop the twig/stick bite the big one buy the farm check out hand in one's dinner pail go bung exit decease depart this life suffer complete ruin or destruction. "the old regime had to perish" Similar: come to an end die (away) be destroyed cease to exist disappear vanish fade dissolve evaporate melt away pass into oblivion wither Opposite: live survive (of rubber, a foodstuff, or other organic substance) lose its normal qualities; rot or decay. "most domestic building was in wood and has perished"
Immured
verb
past tense: immured; past participle: immured
enclose or confine (someone) against their will.
“her brother was immured in a lunatic asylum”
Anchorite
nounHISTORICAL
noun: anchorite; plural noun: anchorites; noun: anchoret; plural noun: anchorets
a religious recluse.
Modulation
noun
1.
the exertion of a modifying or controlling influence on something.
“endorphins in the body are responsible for the modulation of pain sensation”
2.
variation in the strength, tone, or pitch of one’s voice.
“excellent voice modulation”
Bellow
verb (of a person or animal) emit a deep loud roar, typically in pain or anger. "he bellowed in agony" noun a deep roaring shout or sound. "a bellow of rage"
Anvil
a heavy steel or iron block with a flat top, concave sides, and typically a pointed end, on which metal can be hammered and shaped.
the horizontally extended upper part of a cumulonimbus cloud.
“anvil clouds”
ANATOMY
another term for incus.
Porphyry
a hard igneous rock containing crystals, usually of feldspar, in a fine-grained, typically reddish groundmass.
Putto
noun
plural noun: putti
a representation of a naked child, especially a cherub or a cupid in Renaissance art.
Lumber
verb
move in a slow, heavy, awkward way.
“a truck filled his mirror and lumbered past”
Aegis
the protection, backing, or support of a particular person or organization. "negotiations were conducted under the aegis of the UN" Similar: patronage sponsorship backing protection shelter umbrella charge keeping care supervision guidance guardianship trusteeship support agency safeguarding defense protectorship championship aid assistance guaranty auspices ward (in classical art and mythology) an attribute of Zeus and Athena (or their Roman counterparts Jupiter and Minerva) usually represented as a goatskin shield. plural noun: aegises
Dour
relentlessly severe, stern, or gloomy in manner or appearance.
“a hard, dour, humorless fanatic”
Epicene
adjective
having characteristics of both sexes or no characteristics of either sex; of indeterminate sex.
“the sort of epicene beauty peculiar to boys of a certain age”
Prefigure
be an early indication or version of (something). "the Hussite movement prefigured the Reformation" Similar: foreshadow be an early indication of presage be a presage of be a harbinger of herald suggest indicate point to foretoken 2. ARCHAIC imagine beforehand. "she had prefigured her small pilgrimage as made in solitude"
Expeditious
adjective
done with speed and efficiency.
“an expeditious investigation”
Affinity
a spontaneous or natural liking or sympathy for someone or something. "he has an affinity for the music of Berlioz" Similar: empathy rapport sympathy accord harmony like-mindedness closeness to fellow feeling for understanding of liking for fondness for inclination toward partiality for penchant for predilection toward attraction toward chemistry relationship bond connection propinquity Opposite: dislike aversion antipathy blood relationship a similarity of characteristics suggesting a relationship, especially a resemblance in structure between animals, plants, or languages. "a building with no affinity to contemporary architectural styles" Similar: similarity resemblance likeness kinship correspondence relationship association link analogy similitude agreement compatibility congruity parallelism consonance identity identicalness uniformity equivalence Opposite: dissimilitude relationship, especially by marriage as opposed to blood ties.
Bellicose
demonstrating aggression and willingness to fight.
“a group of bellicose patriots”
Antecedent
a thing or event that existed before or logically precedes another.
“some antecedents to the African novel might exist in Africa’s oral traditions”
Similar:
precursor
forerunner
predecessor
adjective
preceding in time or order; previous or preexisting.
“the antecedent events that prompt you to break a diet”
Lustrous
adjective
having luster; shining.
“large, lustrous eyes”
Fresco
a painting done rapidly in watercolor on wet plaster on a wall or ceiling, so that the colors penetrate the plaster and become fixed as it dries.
verb
paint in fresco.
“four scenes had been frescoed on the wall”
Poplar
a tall, fast-growing tree of north temperate regions, widely grown in shelter belts and for timber and pulp.
Staple
noun
a piece of thin wire with a long center portion and two short end pieces that are driven by a stapler through sheets of paper to fasten them together.
verb
attach or secure with a staple or staples.
“Mark stapled a batch of papers together”
Joiner
noun
1.
BRITISH
a person who constructs the wooden components of a building, such as stairs, doors, and door and window frames.
“bricklayers and joiners are needed to convert derelict properties”
2.
INFORMAL
a person who readily joins groups or campaigns.
“a compulsive joiner of revolutionary movements”
Gesso
noun
a hard compound of plaster of Paris or whiting in glue, used in sculpture or as a base for gilding or painting on wood.
“the surface must first be given several coats of gesso”
Distemper
1.
a viral disease of some animals, especially dogs, causing fever, coughing, and catarrh.
2.
ARCHAIC
political disorder.
“an attempt to illuminate the moral roots of the modern world’s distemper”
Absorbency
: the quality or state of being able to draw in or soak up. absorbency. noun.
Mastic
noun
1.
an aromatic gum or resin that exudes from the bark of a Mediterranean tree, used in making varnish and chewing gum and as a flavoring.
“incense made from sandalwood, eagle-wood, mastic and cloves”
2.
the bushy evergreen Mediterranean tree of the cashew family that yields mastic and has aromatic leaves and fruit, closely related to the pistachio.
Turpentine
noun 1. a volatile pungent oil distilled from gum turpentine or pine wood, used in mixing paints and varnishes and in liniment. 2. any of a number of trees which yield turpentine or a similar resin. verb apply turpentine to. "antique turpentining equipment"
Distillation
1. the action of purifying a liquid by a process of heating and cooling. "the petroleum distillation process" Similar: distilling purification refining filtering filtration treatment processing sublimation fractionation pressing squeezing extraction extracting drawing out concentration condensation reduction 2. the extraction of the essential meaning or most important aspects of something. "the film is a distillation of personal experiences"
Sublimate
(in psychoanalytic theory) divert or modify (an instinctual impulse) into a culturally higher or socially more acceptable activity. "libido must be sublimated into productive work activities" Similar: channel control divert transfer redirect convert refine purify transmute 2. CHEMISTRY another term for sublime. nounCHEMISTRY /ˈsəbləmət,ˈsəbləˌmāt/ a solid deposit of a substance which has sublimed. "condensation of a sublimate"
Pumice
noun: pumice
a very light and porous volcanic rock formed when a gas-rich froth of glassy lava solidifies rapidly.
a piece of porous volcanic rock or a similar substance used as an abrasive, especially for removing hard or callused skin.
plural noun: pumices; noun: pumice stone; plural noun: pumice stones
Tempera
noun
a method of painting with pigments dispersed in an emulsion miscible with water, typically egg yolk. The method was used in Europe for fine painting, mainly on wood panels, from the 12th or early 13th century until the 15th, when it began to give way to oils.
emulsion used in tempera painting.
“egg tempera”
Adjunct
noun 1. a thing added to something else as a supplementary rather than an essential part. "computer technology is an adjunct to learning" Similar: supplement addition accompaniment complement companion extra add-on additive accessory appurtenance attachment appendage addendum affix auxiliary 2. GRAMMAR a word or phrase used to amplify or modify the meaning of another word or words in a sentence. adjective connected or added to something, typically in an auxiliary way. "other alternative or adjunct therapies include immunotherapy"
Cusp
noun 1. a point of transition between two different states. "those on the cusp of adulthood" 2. a pointed end where two curves meet.
Arcana
noun
secrets or mysteries.
“his knowledge of federal budget arcana is legendary”
either of the two groups of cards in a tarot pack: the twenty-two trump cards (the major arcana ) and the fifty-six suit cards (the minor arcana ).
plural noun: major arcana; plural noun: minor arcana
Ochre
noun
noun: ochre
an earthy pigment containing ferric oxide, typically with clay, varying from light yellow to brown or red.
“yellow ocher”
Hue
a color or shade. "verdigris is greenish-yellow in hue" Similar: color tone shade tint tinge cast tincture the attribute of a color by virtue of which it is discernible as red, green, etc., and which is dependent on its dominant wavelength and independent of intensity or lightness. character or aspect. "men of all political hues submerged their feuds"
Byword
noun a person or thing cited as a notorious and outstanding example or embodiment of something. "his name became a byword for luxury" Similar: perfect example of classic case of model of exemplar of embodiment of incarnation of personification of epitome of typification of synonymous with avatar of a word or expression summarizing a thing's characteristics or a person's principles. "“Small is beautiful” may be the byword for most couturiers"
Stipulate
verb
demand or specify (a requirement), typically as part of a bargain or agreement.
“he stipulated certain conditions before their marriage”
Malachite
transformation
Malachite is a green copper carbonate mineral.
Malachite is a rich shade of green and its meaning is transformation and positive change.
Foliage
plant leaves collectively.
“healthy green foliage”
Pungent
adjective having a sharply strong taste or smell. "the pungent smell of frying onions" Similar: strong powerful pervasive penetrating suffocating stifling sharp acrid acid sour biting stinging burning smarting irritating nauseating nauseous sickly offensive astringent bitter fetid cloying mephitic tart vinegary tangy highly flavored aromatic spicy spiced piquant peppery hot fiery Opposite: bland mild (of comment, criticism, or humor) having a sharp and caustic quality. "he has expressed some fairly pungent criticisms"
Fledge
verb
gerund or present participle: fledging
(of a young bird) develop wing feathers that are large enough for flight.
“the young fledge around four weeks after hatching”
bring up (a young bird) until its wing feathers are developed enough for flight.
“they fledged twenty-four chicks in fourteen months”
Balletic
adjective
relating to or characteristic of ballet.
“a graceful, balletic movement”
Dismissive
feeling or showing that something is unworthy of consideration.
“he is too dismissive of the importance of the industrialists”
Decorum
behavior in keeping with good taste and propriety. "you exhibit remarkable modesty and decorum" Similar: propriety properness seemliness decency decorousness good taste correctness appropriateness appropriacy politeness courtesy good manners refinement breeding deportment dignity respectability modesty demureness Opposite: impropriety etiquette. "he had no idea of funeral decorum" Similar: etiquette protocol customary behavior good form custom convention conformity conventionality usage ritual formalities niceties punctilios politeness politesse the thing to do couth ARCHAIC a particular requirement of good taste and propriety. plural noun: decorums
Annunciation
noun
the announcement of the Incarnation by the angel Gabriel to Mary (Luke 1:26–38).
the church festival commemorating this, held on March 25 (Lady Day).
FORMAL•ARCHAIC
the announcement of something.
“the annunciation of a set of rules applying to the relationships between states”
Crouch
crouch /krouCH/ Learn to pronounce verb gerund or present participle: crouching adopt a position where the knees are bent and the upper body is brought forward and down, sometimes to avoid detection or to defend oneself. "we crouched down in the trench"
Carping
adjective
difficult to please; critical.
“she has silenced the carping critics with a successful debut tour”
Purlieu
noun plural noun: purlieus 1. the area near or surrounding a place. "the photogenic purlieus of the Princeton" 2. HISTORICAL•BRITISH a tract on the border of a forest, especially one earlier included in it and still partly subject to forest laws.
Predella
: the base of an altarpiece
especially : one containing decorated panels depicting scenes related to the main panel or panels
Altarpiece
noun
a work of art, especially a painting on wood, set above and behind an altar.
Unsubstantiated
adjective
not supported or proven by evidence.
“unsubstantiated claims”
Predella
: the base of an altarpiece especially : one containing decorated panels depicting scenes related to the main panel or panels.
Altarpiece
a work of art, especially a painting on wood, set above and behind an altar.
Unsubstantiated
adjective
not supported or proven by evidence.
“unsubstantiated claims”
Carb
: to find fault or complain querulously
Lofty
of imposing height. "the elegant square was shaded by lofty palms" Similar: tall high giant towering soaring sky-high sky-scraping imposing magnificent majestic Opposite: low short 2. (of wool and other textiles) thick and resilient.
Stipulate
demand or specify (a requirement), typically as part of a bargain or agreement.
“he stipulated certain conditions before their marriage”
Tassel
1.
a tuft of loosely hanging threads, cords, or other material knotted at one end and attached for decoration to home furnishings, clothing, or other items.
“damask curtains were held by silk cords with gold tassels”
2. the tufted head of some plants, especially a flower head with prominent stamens at the top of a cornstalk. "the pollen forms on the tassel" verb 1. decorate with a tassel or tassels. "the banner was tasseled with silk and golden cords" 2. NORTH AMERICAN (of corn or other plants) form tassels.
Diaphanous
adjective
(especially of fabric) light, delicate, and translucent.
“a diaphanous dress of pale gold”
Palpably
adverb 1. noticeably or clearly. "palpably false claims" 2. in a way that is able to be touched or felt. "the lymph nodes were palpably enlarged"
Unruly
disorderly and disruptive and not amenable to discipline or control.
“Kate tried to control her unruly emotions”
Quiff
a piece of hair, especially on a man, brushed upward and backward from the forehead.
“a boy with a floppy quiff”
Discernible
: able to be perceived by a sense (such as sight or smell) or by the mind : capable of being discerned
Accoutrement
noun
additional items of dress or equipment, or other items carried or worn by a person or used for a particular activity.
“the accoutrements of religious ritual”
Puissant
adjectiveARCHAIC•LITERARY
having great power or influence.
“he would become a puissant man”
Ephemera
noun
things that exist or are used or enjoyed for only a short time.
“there were papers, letters, old boxes—all sorts of ephemera”
items of collectible memorabilia, typically written or printed ones, that were originally expected to have only short-term usefulness or popularity.
“Mickey Mouse ephemera”
Pageant
oun a public entertainment consisting of a procession of people in elaborate, colorful costumes, or an outdoor performance of a historical scene. Similar: parade procession cavalcade scene play representation tableau tableau vivant display spectacle extravaganza show NORTH AMERICAN a beauty contest. noun: beauty pageant; plural noun: beauty pageants HISTORICAL a scene erected on a fixed stage or moving vehicle as a public show.
Awash
covered or flooded with water, especially seawater or rain.
“the boat rolled violently, its decks awash”
Similar:
flooded
covered with water
under water
submerged
engulfed
submersed
containing large numbers or amounts of someone or something.
“the city was awash with journalists”
level with the surface of water, especially the sea, so that it just washes over.
“a rock awash outside the reef entrance”
Eponymous
adjective
(of a person) giving their name to something.
“the eponymous hero of the novel”
(of a thing) named after a particular person.
“Roseanne’s eponymous hit TV series”
Talismanic
adjective
relating to or of the nature of a talisman or talismans.
“symbolism can be attached to talismanic objects”
representing and inspiring a particular group.
“they are without their talismanic captain”
Cronyism
nounDEROGATORY
the appointment of friends and associates to positions of authority, without proper regard to their qualifications.
Rig
verb make (a sailing ship or boat) ready for sailing by providing it with sails and rigging. "the catamaran will be rigged as a ketch" Similar: equip fit out/up supply outfit furnish accoutre array provide provision stock arm kit out noun 1. the particular way in which a sailboat's masts, sails, and rigging are arranged. "the yacht will emerge from the yard with her original rig" 2. an apparatus, device, or piece of equipment designed for a particular purpose. "a lighting rig"
Relish
noun 1. great enjoyment. "she swigged a mouthful of wine with relish" 2. a condiment eaten with plain food to add flavor. "use salsa as a relish with grilled meat or fish" Similar: condiment accompaniment sauce dressing flavoring seasoning dip
verb 1. enjoy greatly. "he was relishing his moment of glory" Similar: enjoy delight in love like adore be pleased by take pleasure in rejoice in appreciate savor revel in luxuriate in glory in gloat over feel self-satisfied about crow about get a kick out of get a thrill out of Opposite: dislike 2. ARCHAIC make pleasant to the taste; add relish to. "I have also a novel to relish my wine"
Juggernaut
noun
a huge, powerful, and overwhelming force or institution.
“a juggernaut of secular and commercial culture”
Bawdy
dealing with sexual matters in a comical way; humorously indecent.
Joust
verb 1. HISTORICAL (of a medieval knight) engage in a sports contest in which two opponents on horseback fight with lances. "to joust, a man must have an opponent to ride against" Similar: enter the lists tourney tilt break a lance fight spar contend clash 2. compete closely for superiority. "the guerrillas jousted for supremacy" noun a medieval sports contest in which two opponents on horseback fought with lances. "the king and the young knights at court passed their time in jousts, tournaments, and the chase"
Caparison
noun
an ornamental covering spread over a horse’s saddle or harness.
verb
(of a horse) be decked out in rich decorative coverings.
“his horse was caparisoned with colored ribbons”
Ilk
noun a type of people or things similar to those already referred to. "the veiled suggestions that reporters of his ilk seem to be so good at" Similar: type sort class category group set bracket genre kidney grain species race strain vintage make model brand stamp variety family ARCHAIC•SCOTTISH of the place or estate of the same name. noun: of that ilk; plural noun: of that ilks "Sir Iain Moncreiffe of that Ilk"
Revel
verb enjoy oneself in a lively and noisy way, especially with drinking and dancing. "they spent the evening reveling with their guests" Similar: celebrate make merry have a party party feast eat drink and be merry carouse roister have fun have a good time enjoy oneself go on a spree live it up whoop it up have a fling have a ball make whoopee rave paint the town red push the boat out spree Opposite: mourn noun lively and noisy enjoyment, especially with drinking and dancing. "late-night revels"
Incendiary
adjective (of a device or attack) designed to cause fires. "incendiary grenades" Similar: combustible flammable inflammable fire-producing fire-raising noun an incendiary bomb or device.
Rendition
1. a performance or interpretation, especially of a dramatic role or piece of music. "a wonderful rendition of “Nessun Dorma.”" Similar: performance rendering interpretation presentation execution delivery playing singing reading recitation recital version variation take on 2. the practice of sending a foreign criminal or terrorist suspect covertly to be interrogated in a country with less rigorous regulations for the humane treatment of prisoners.
