| aberrant |
straying from what is normal or usual; atypical; anomalous. |
| belligerence |
a very aggressive or hostile attitude; warlike nature. |
| commandeer |
to force (a civilian) into, or seize (goods) for, the military. |
| deride |
to ridicule or treat with scornful mockery. |
| devious |
not the straightest, most direct way; winding; roundabout. |
| disparity |
the condition or an instance of being unlike, unequal, or of different kinds; difference. |
| figment |
something imaginary or invented. |
| hitherto |
until this time; previously. |
| introspection |
examination of one's own thoughts, emotions, and sensations; self-scrutiny. |
| lackadaisical |
lacking energy, determination, or enthusiasm; listless or lazy. |
| lateral |
about, from, or toward a side or sides; sideways. |
| singe |
to burn slightly on the surface, end, or edge. |
| trenchant |
incisive or penetrating, as perception or wit. |
| ultimatum |
a final statement of demands, especially when issued with a threat of action if rejected, as in a diplomatic discussion. |
| vicissitude |
(usually plural) unexpected and unforeseeable changes or shifts, as in one's circumstances. |