| askance |
with distrust or suspicion. |
| austerity |
a tightened or stringent economy, as when there are high taxes, frozen wages, and shortages of consumer goods. |
| deposition |
a sworn statement, usually in writing, for use as testimony by an absent witness in a court of law. |
| descry |
to see or make out, especially something obscured or at a distance. |
| duress |
intimidation or coercion. |
| epicene |
sharing the traits of both sexes. |
| exceptionable |
likely to be objected to; objectionable. |
| kibbutz |
an Israeli farming settlement whose ownership is shared by those who live and work there. |
| lien |
a legal claim on a piece of property when the current owner is in default on a debt or obligation. |
| nonplus |
to cause (someone) to be unable to think of what to say, do, or decide; perplex; bewilder. |
| nostrum |
a favorite but unproven scheme or theory, offered as a remedy for social or political problems; panacea. |
| opiate |
something that induces relaxation, calm, or stupor. |
| pliant |
easily flexed; supple. |
| tyro |
one who is beginning to learn a business, trade, sport, or the like; novice; neophyte. |
| veneration |
a feeling of great respect; awe; reverence. |