| affidavit |
a written statement that is sworn in the presence of an authorized official to be true, used as legal evidence. |
| alluvium |
sand, soil, gravel, or the like deposited by moving water, as along a river bed. |
| apprise |
to inform (often followed by "of"). |
| boudoir |
a woman's private sitting room or bedroom. |
| conclave |
a secret, private, or confidential meeting or gathering. |
| encomium |
a formal expression of praise. |
| extenuate |
to reduce the magnitude or seriousness of (a fault or offense) by offering partial excuses. |
| facsimile |
an exact copy or duplicate of something printed or of a picture. |
| goad |
something that spurs a person to action; stimulus. |
| gullible |
believing almost anything; easily tricked. |
| insinuate |
to suggest (something derogatory) subtly and indirectly. |
| laudatory |
expressing praise. |
| obtrude |
to thrust or force (oneself, one's concerns, or one's opinions) on another or others without being asked. |
| paroxysm |
a sudden strong outburst of feelings or actions. |
| sere1 |
dried up or withered. |