| abject |
of the lowest or most wretched kind. |
| catechism |
a summary of the principles of a religion, especially Christianity, in the form of questions and answers. |
| crux |
an essential, basic, crucial, or pivotal point. |
| doctrinaire |
dogmatically adhering to a theory or a school of thought, regardless of its practicality. |
| elixir |
a sweetened, aromatic solution of alcohol and water used as a vehicle for medicines. |
| faddish |
relating to or having the nature of a passing fashion or craze. |
| havoc |
ruin or devastation. |
| invoke |
to call out to (a god, muse, or the like) for help, support, protection, or inspiration. |
| lackluster |
without brilliance or vitality; dull. |
| nadir |
the lowest or most depressing point or stage. |
| oscillate |
to swing steadily and repeatedly back and forth. |
| seclusion |
the act of isolating or hiding away, or the condition of being isolated in this way. |
| soporific |
causing sleep or sleepiness. |
| statute |
a law made by a legislature, as opposed to one established by the courts. |
| temerity |
reckless or foolish boldness; rash disregard of danger. |