| abash |
to cause to feel embarrassed, uneasy, or ashamed. |
| academicism |
in the arts, rigid adherence to accepted and traditional forms. |
| consummate |
of the highest order or degree. |
| denigrate |
to deny the worth of; sneer at; belittle. |
| disquisition |
a formal, often lengthy, oral or written discussion of a subject. |
| diurnal |
occurring or active during, or belonging to, the daytime rather than nighttime. |
| elide |
to leave out or slur, as a syllable or letter, in pronunciation. |
| fixation |
an obsession, especially one that interferes with normal functioning. |
| foible |
a minor flaw or weakness in personality, character, or behavior. |
| gambit |
a tactic or maneuver designed to gain an advantage, especially one that involves some sacrifice on one's part. |
| guru |
in a cult or religious movement, a spiritual guide or leader, sometimes believed to be divine. |
| incumbent |
currently holding an office or position. |
| minatory |
presenting a threat; menacing. |
| pusillanimous |
shamefully timid; cowardly. |
| rodomontade |
puffed-up boasting or bravado. |