| abysmal |
of vast extent; unmeasurable; extreme. |
| attenuate |
to cause to be thin, rarefied, or fine. |
| berate |
to reproach or scold severely. |
| coir |
the fiber made from coconut husks, used for matting, rope, or the like. |
| colloquialism |
a word or phrase typically used in conversational, informal, or regional speech or writing, hence sometimes considered inappropriate in formal writing. |
| conversant |
familiar; acquainted; practiced (usually followed by "with" or "in"). |
| derelict |
failing to fulfill one's responsibilities or obligations; remiss. |
| epistolary |
established or continued through letters. |
| foment |
to encourage the development of; instigate or foster. |
| impediment |
an obstacle or hindrance. |
| invidious |
tending to arouse feelings of resentment or animosity, especially because of a slight; offensive or discriminatory. |
| nostrum |
a favorite but unproven scheme or theory, offered as a remedy for social or political problems; panacea. |
| pandemic |
a widespread outbreak of disease that afflicts many people over different continents. |
| paroxysm |
a sudden strong outburst of feelings or actions. |
| purvey |
to supply or provide (especially food, drink, or other provisions). |