| allegory |
in art or literature, the use of concrete characters, events, or things, to represent abstract qualities or ideas, often to make a point about good and evil. |
| disconcert |
to upset the calm or self-assurance of; ruffle. |
| dissonant |
not in harmony or agreement; discordant. |
| electrify |
to shock, startle, or excite. |
| fluency |
the ability to speak or write smoothly and easily in another language. |
| foray |
a quick raid or sudden advance, usually military and often to take forage or plunder. |
| heretofore |
prior to this time; before now. |
| immobility |
the state or condition of not moving or being motionless. |
| natal |
of or concerning one's birth. |
| repudiate |
to reject completely as invalid or untrue. |
| residue |
a substance or quantity that remains after a part has been removed or after a process has been completed. |
| skirmish |
a minor or preliminary battle between small military units. |
| stature |
relative status as measured by skill or achievement; reputation. |
| stoical |
showing little or no emotion in reaction to painful or pleasant experiences. |
| surreptitious |
made, performed, or achieved by stealth or in secret. |