| accretion |
the process of gradual increase or growth, especially by additions from the outside. |
| augury |
the art or practice or an instance of predicting the future or obtaining hidden knowledge by interpreting omens. |
| blithe |
indifferent or casual; unconcerned. |
| boudoir |
a woman's private sitting room or bedroom. |
| conversant |
familiar; acquainted; practiced (usually followed by "with" or "in"). |
| convoluted |
complex; intricate. |
| determinism |
the belief or teaching that every effect, including human thoughts and actions, is completely and predictably brought about by preceding causes and that, therefore, free will does not exist. |
| dilatory |
used to cause a delay. |
| epistolary |
established or continued through letters. |
| foible |
a minor flaw or weakness in personality, character, or behavior. |
| idyllic |
charmingly simple and natural, as a scene or experience; suggestive of peaceful countryside. |
| magnum opus |
a great work of art, literature, or music, especially a particular person's masterpiece. |
| munificent |
having or showing great generosity. |
| salvo |
the firing of guns or other firearms simultaneously or in succession, especially as a salute. |
| stridulate |
to produce a shrill grating, creaking, or chirping sound by rubbing certain parts of the body together, as some insects do. |