| arbiter |
someone who has the authority to decide an issue or settle a dispute. |
| aura |
the subtle emanation of a quality or condition of someone or something. |
| broach |
to suggest or mention for the first time; bring up. |
| brusque |
impolitely abrupt in speech or actions; curt. |
| clout |
(informal) influence or power to persuade. |
| cumulative |
becoming larger or greater by means of gradual addition. |
| disparity |
the condition or an instance of being unlike, unequal, or of different kinds; difference. |
| engulf |
to cover entirely, as if by a flood. |
| faction |
a group or party within, and often at odds with, a larger organization. |
| landlocked |
without any access to the sea. |
| overture |
an opening move to begin something. |
| perfectionist |
one who tends not to be satisfied with less than flawless performance from herself or himself. |
| perforate |
to make a hole in. |
| perverse |
stubbornly opposed to what is expected or requested of one, or marked by or inclined toward such an attitude. |
| plenitude |
abundance; fullness. |