| colloquial |
characteristic of or suited to informal or familiar conversation or to writing that is imitative of conversational tone. |
| debase |
to reduce in value, quality, esteem, or character. |
| disconcert |
to upset the calm or self-assurance of; ruffle. |
| dissertation |
a formal and usually lengthy exposition in speech or writing, especially a detailed report of research by a candidate for a doctoral degree. |
| electorate |
a body of those entitled to participate in an election; qualified voters, as a group. |
| expunge |
to cross out or erase. |
| inordinate |
beyond the bounds of reason; excessive. |
| mercenary |
interested only in money and material gain. |
| meritorious |
having worth or high quality; deserving of praise or reward. |
| nepotism |
favoritism shown to a near relative, as in preferential hiring or patronage. |
| ornamentation |
decoration; embellishment. |
| permeable |
of a substance, being such that gas or liquid can penetrate or diffuse through it. |
| realign |
to come to a new relationship or set of alliances, as countries or political factions. |
| reciprocate |
to give (feelings or things) in return. |
| titular |
having a title but none of the power or responsibility related to it; nominal. |