| banal |
lacking originality or liveliness; disappointingly ordinary; commonplace; trite. |
| cantankerous |
irritable, stubborn, and quarrelsome. |
| coir |
the fiber made from coconut husks, used for matting, rope, or the like. |
| demulcent |
an oily or sticky substance used especially to soothe irritation in mucous membranes. |
| élan |
enthusiasm or vigor. |
| extirpate |
to get rid of completely, as if by pulling up the roots; root out. |
| imbroglio |
a difficult, confused, or complicated situation, often involving a misunderstanding, disagreement, or quarrel. |
| impugn |
to call into question; challenge or try to discredit. |
| incumbent |
currently holding an office or position. |
| lacuna |
a gap or omitted part. |
| ligature |
a band or tie. |
| opiate |
something that induces relaxation, calm, or stupor. |
| peremptory |
not permitting refusal or disobedience. |
| pinchbeck |
false, sham, or counterfeit. |
| recessional |
a piece of music that accompanies the exit of participants in a program or religious ceremony. |