aggregate |
a sum, combination, or composite of separable elements. |
apropos |
appropriate; relevant; opportune. |
colloquialism |
a word or phrase typically used in conversational, informal, or regional speech or writing, hence sometimes considered inappropriate in formal writing. |
demulcent |
an oily or sticky substance used especially to soothe irritation in mucous membranes. |
flout |
to show scorn or contempt for, especially by openly or deliberately disobeying. |
incumbent |
currently holding an office or position. |
insinuate |
to suggest (something derogatory) subtly and indirectly. |
lanugo |
fine, soft hair, especially that with which a human fetus or newborn is covered. |
ligature |
a band or tie. |
panegyric |
a formal speech or piece of writing devoted to publicly praising a person or thing. |
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. |
pneumatic |
of, using, or concerning air or other gases. |
recidivism |
chronic return to bad habits, especially criminal relapse. |
solipsism |
the self-centered habit of interpreting and judging all things exclusively according to one's own concepts of meaning and value. |
sotto voce |
in a low voice or undertone, so as not to be overheard; softly (often used as a musical direction). |