| accretion |
the process of gradual increase or growth, especially by additions from the outside. |
| agog |
highly excited and full of anticipation. |
| apprise |
to inform (often followed by "of"). |
| Byzantine |
characterized by complexity and intrigue. |
| cachet |
prestige. |
| gadfly |
a persistent critic, especially of established institutions and policies. |
| glabrous |
having no hair or fuzz; bald; smooth. |
| hagiography |
an admiring and uncritical biography of anyone. |
| impinge |
to encroach. |
| indemnity |
insurance against damage, loss, or liability. |
| malaise |
a state or condition of feeling generally unwell, mentally depressed, sluggish, or uneasy. |
| modus operandi |
a method of accomplishing something; way of working. |
| pleonasm |
a redundant word, phrase, or expression. |
| reconnaissance |
the act or process of examining an area, especially to gain militarily useful information. |
| Sabbatarian |
one who observes the Sabbath on Saturday, as Jews and certain Christians. |