| academicism |
in the arts, rigid adherence to accepted and traditional forms. |
| appellation |
a name, title, or other designation. |
| berate |
to reproach or scold severely. |
| blithe |
indifferent or casual; unconcerned. |
| electuary |
a drug mixed with honey, syrup, or the like to form a paste to be smeared on the teeth or gums of a sick animal. |
| equivocal |
having at least two plausible alternative meanings, often intentionally so in order to deceive or avoid commitment; ambiguous. |
| expiation |
the act or the means of making amends, as for a sin or crime. |
| impugn |
to call into question; challenge or try to discredit. |
| insularity |
the condition of being closed to new ideas or outside influences; narrow-mindedness. |
| oppugn |
to oppose, contradict, criticize, or call into question. |
| pretentious |
assuming or marked by an air of importance or superiority that is unwarranted. |
| redoubtable |
inspiring fear; formidable. |
| reprise |
repetition of a musical phrase or theme in an identical or slightly altered way. |
| saturnine |
gloomy, sullen, or cynical in temperament or appearance. |
| tummler |
an entertainer or social director who encourages participation by guests or audience. |