| accretion |
the process of gradual increase or growth, especially by additions from the outside. |
| appose |
to place next to or side by side; juxtapose. |
| bellicose |
easily incited to quarrel or fight; belligerent. |
| berate |
to reproach or scold severely. |
| cloture |
in U.S. parliamentary procedure, a method of ending debate and causing an immediate vote on the matter being discussed. |
| compunction |
uneasiness about the propriety or suitability of an action; qualm. |
| contretemps |
an embarrassing or unfortunate happening; mishap; mischance. |
| granulate |
to make into small particles or grains. |
| oblique |
not direct or straightforward in intent, means, or achievement; indirect or devious. |
| periphrasis |
an indirect or roundabout way of phrasing something; circumlocution. |
| redoubtable |
inspiring fear; formidable. |
| sanguine |
having an optimistic temperament or outlook. |
| solecism |
a gross violation of convention in grammar, etiquette, or the like; impropriety. |
| supine |
lying with the face upward. |
| surcingle |
a girth or belt that wraps around the body of a horse to secure a saddle, pack, or the like to its back. |