| ascertain |
to learn without question; determine. |
| caste |
the status conferred by the class to which one belongs. |
| coir |
the fiber made from coconut husks, used for matting, rope, or the like. |
| conjoin |
to combine for a common purpose. |
| declivity |
a downward or descending slope. |
| determinism |
the belief or teaching that every effect, including human thoughts and actions, is completely and predictably brought about by preceding causes and that, therefore, free will does not exist. |
| diatribe |
a bitter, abusive attack in speech or writing. |
| impromptu |
without advance plan or preparation; spontaneously. |
| incursion |
a raid or sudden invasion. |
| nostrum |
a favorite but unproven scheme or theory, offered as a remedy for social or political problems; panacea. |
| oblique |
not direct or straightforward in intent, means, or achievement; indirect or devious. |
| obtrude |
to thrust or force (oneself, one's concerns, or one's opinions) on another or others without being asked. |
| opprobrious |
expressing condemnation or scorn; accusing of shameful behavior. |
| parlance |
manner of speaking or writing, especially word choice; vernacular. |
| reprisal |
injury inflicted in retaliation for injury received, as in war; revenge. |