| abrogate |
to abolish, repeal, or nullify by authority. |
| apprise |
to inform (often followed by "of"). |
| austere |
having only what is needed; very simple or plain. |
| cynosure |
a thing or person that is the center of attention and admiration. |
| declivity |
a downward or descending slope. |
| effluvium |
an outflow of usually invisible, foul-smelling vapor or gas. |
| encomium |
a formal expression of praise. |
| flak |
(informal) irritating opposition, criticism, or dissent. |
| impromptu |
without advance plan or preparation; spontaneously. |
| innocuous |
not capable of causing damage; harmless. |
| nostrum |
a favorite but unproven scheme or theory, offered as a remedy for social or political problems; panacea. |
| opprobrious |
expressing condemnation or scorn; accusing of shameful behavior. |
| perilous |
causing or involving great danger; risky; hazardous. |
| relict |
a plant, animal, or geological feature that has survived in a considerably changed environment. |
| vitiate |
to harm the quality of; mar; spoil. |