| ascertain |
to learn without question; determine. |
| austere |
having only what is needed; very simple or plain. |
| caste |
the status conferred by the class to which one belongs. |
| demotic |
of or relating to the common people; popular. |
| discomfit |
to upset or confuse. |
| flak |
(informal) irritating opposition, criticism, or dissent. |
| gamut |
the whole extent or range of anything. |
| hypocrisy |
the practice or an instance of stating or pretending to hold beliefs or principles that one does not actually live by; insincerity. |
| impediment |
an obstacle or hindrance. |
| indulgent |
gratifying, or being inclined to gratify or yield to others' wishes, especially rather than enforcing discipline or strictness. |
| louche |
of questionable decency, morality, or taste; shady; disreputable. |
| 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. |
| pathos |
a quality in life or art that evokes pity, sadness, or compassion. |
| recidivism |
chronic return to bad habits, especially criminal relapse. |
| seminal |
of critical importance; essential. |