| abeyance |
temporary suspension or cessation. |
| ascertain |
to learn without question; determine. |
| astringent |
a substance or drug that contracts body tissue and slows discharge or secretion. |
| austere |
having only what is needed; very simple or plain. |
| bereft |
deprived or stripped of something. |
| gambit |
a tactic or maneuver designed to gain an advantage, especially one that involves some sacrifice on one's part. |
| gnomic |
short and pithy, as an aphorism. |
| intransigence |
refusal to alter one's ideas or position in response to the wishes of others. |
| laconic |
using very few words; succinct; terse. |
| modus operandi |
a method of accomplishing something; way of working. |
| parturient |
giving birth or about to give birth; in labor. |
| precursory |
coming before and serving to indicate what will follow; premonitory. |
| spurn |
to reject, refuse, or treat with scorn; disdain; despise. |
| stately |
dignified. |
| unabashed |
not feeling or showing embarrassment, uneasiness, or shame. |