| alchemy |
an ancient exploration and practice of chemistry which flourished particularly during medieval times. Practitioners used chemical processes in the hope of, for example, producing gold from base metals, finding the key to eternal life, and uncovering a single cure for all disease. |
| anthology |
a collection of written works, such as poems or stories. An anthology can be written by one or by several authors. |
| channel |
a long, narrow body of water that joins two larger bodies of water. |
| commitment |
a pledge or obligation to fulfill an act or function. |
| conspicuous |
easily seen; obvious. |
| context |
the setting of a word or phrase in speaking or writing that determines or affects its meaning. Context can be pictures, sounds, other words, or physical surroundings. |
| contingency |
a future event that is possible but not likely. |
| dynasty |
a series of rulers from the same family or group. |
| flammable |
able to catch on fire easily. |
| inspiration |
a person or thing that motivates, uplifts, or gives one the confidence to do something; someone or something that inspires. |
| measly |
(informal) ridiculously inadequate or unsatisfactory; paltry. |
| odyssey |
an extended, wandering journey of adventure or quest. |
| pathology |
the scientific study of the causes, nature, and results of bodily disease. |
| perceive |
to become aware of through the senses. |
| political |
having to do with the study or practice of government and its policies. |