| amortize |
to deduct (expenditures) by fixed amounts over a period of time. |
| curmudgeon |
an irritable or ill-tempered person. |
| epistemology |
the branch of philosophy dealing with the origin, nature, and limits of human knowledge. |
| etiolate |
to weaken, especially through deprivation of normal development. |
| gambit |
a tactic or maneuver designed to gain an advantage, especially one that involves some sacrifice on one's part. |
| gossamer |
delicately fine, gauzelike, or filmy. |
| idyllic |
charmingly simple and natural, as a scene or experience; suggestive of peaceful countryside. |
| inculcate |
to cause to accept an idea or value; imbue. |
| laureate |
one honored for achievement in a particular field or by a particular award, especially in the arts or sciences. |
| noisome |
offensive or disgusting, especially in smell; foul. |
| parlous |
full of dangers or risks; perilous. |
| pungent |
sharp and strong in taste or smell. |
| refulgent |
shining brilliantly; radiant. |
| scion |
an offspring or heir. |
| triage |
a system of determining priority of medical treatment, on the basis of need, chances of survival, and the like, to victims on a battlefield or in a hospital emergency ward. |