| colloquialism |
a word or phrase typically used in conversational, informal, or regional speech or writing, hence sometimes considered inappropriate in formal writing. |
| diurnal |
occurring or active during, or belonging to, the daytime rather than nighttime. |
| elide |
to leave out or slur, as a syllable or letter, in pronunciation. |
| euphoria |
a strong feeling of well-being or elation, sometimes unrealistic or unwarranted, and able to be induced by certain drugs. |
| halcyon |
tranquil; peaceful; calm. |
| inanition |
a state of exhaustion caused by a lack of nourishment. |
| incumbent |
currently holding an office or position. |
| irrefragable |
impossible to refute or dispute; undeniable. |
| kibbutz |
an Israeli farming settlement whose ownership is shared by those who live and work there. |
| laconic |
using very few words; succinct; terse. |
| mahatma |
(sometimes capitalized) in Buddhism and theosophy, any of a class of persons revered for their wisdom and love of humanity. |
| perquisite |
a payment or benefit in addition to the wages or salary associated with a position. |
| quiescence |
a state of inaction, rest, or stillness; dormancy. |
| recondite |
involving profound concepts and complexities; not easily understood. |
| sotto voce |
in a low voice or undertone, so as not to be overheard; softly (often used as a musical direction). |