| accretion |
the process of gradual increase or growth, especially by additions from the outside. |
| apotheosis |
a perfect or ideal example; epitome. |
| baneful |
causing or leading to death, destruction, or ruin; harmful or deadly. |
| calumny |
a harmful statement, known by the maker to be false. |
| conclave |
a secret, private, or confidential meeting or gathering. |
| deposition |
a sworn statement, usually in writing, for use as testimony by an absent witness in a court of law. |
| deracinate |
to pull up by or as if by the roots; uproot; isolate; exile. |
| desideratum |
something that is needed or wanted. |
| élan |
enthusiasm or vigor. |
| effluvium |
an outflow of usually invisible, foul-smelling vapor or gas. |
| expostulate |
to argue earnestly with someone, usually against an intended action; remonstrate. |
| feckless |
weak or incompetent; ineffective. |
| indemnity |
insurance against damage, loss, or liability. |
| perilous |
causing or involving great danger; risky; hazardous. |
| stickler |
one who must observe or conform to something (usually followed by "for"). |