| astringent |
a substance or drug that contracts body tissue and slows discharge or secretion. |
| attenuate |
to cause to be thin, rarefied, or fine. |
| bathos |
a sudden descent from an exalted style or esteemed state to the commonplace. |
| berate |
to reproach or scold severely. |
| collateral |
property or other security put forward to guarantee repayment of a loan. |
| contretemps |
an embarrassing or unfortunate happening; mishap; mischance. |
| disabuse |
to free (a person) from misconception or deception; set straight. |
| distraught |
mentally or emotionally unbalanced; crazed. |
| emote |
to express or simulate feelings, especially in an exaggerated or theatrical manner. |
| epigraph |
a pertinent quotation or motto, especially found at the beginning of a literary work or of a chapter. |
| insinuate |
to suggest (something derogatory) subtly and indirectly. |
| minatory |
presenting a threat; menacing. |
| ostentation |
a showy display to impress others. |
| otiose |
having no purpose or use; unnecessary or futile. |
| sudorific |
causing or increasing sweat, as a medication. |