| asceticism |
self-discipline and self-denial as a means of spiritual improvement. |
| bilge |
the rounded part of a ship's hull between the bottom and the sides. |
| consternation |
surprise and alarm, leading to panic, deep disappointment, or total confusion. |
| gird |
to surround, bind, or encircle, as with a belt. |
| indistinct |
not clearly perceived or perceiving. |
| inquest |
a legal investigation, usually involving a jury, especially a coroner's investigation of a suspicious death. |
| jubilate |
to feel joyful; rejoice; exult. |
| lenitive |
mitigating pain, discomfort, or distress; soothing. |
| malfeasance |
an illegal act or wrongdoing, especially by a public official. |
| parlance |
manner of speaking or writing, especially word choice; vernacular. |
| parvenu |
a person who has suddenly acquired wealth or status, without acquiring the tastes, manners, customs, or the like of his or her new station. |
| preferment |
the act of promoting or being promoted to a higher position or office. |
| recidivism |
chronic return to bad habits, especially criminal relapse. |
| salacious |
excited by lust; lecherous. |
| tummler |
an entertainer or social director who encourages participation by guests or audience. |