| aberration |
a deviation from what is considered normal or right; irregularity. |
| antediluvian |
hopelessly old-fashioned; primitive; outdated. |
| determinism |
the belief or teaching that every effect, including human thoughts and actions, is completely and predictably brought about by preceding causes and that, therefore, free will does not exist. |
| dissemble |
to disguise or hide behind a false semblance; conceal the true nature or state of. |
| ersatz |
serving as a substitute, especially when of inferior quality. |
| forswear |
to give up or renounce, often with an oath or pledge. |
| goad |
something that spurs a person to action; stimulus. |
| indulgent |
gratifying, or being inclined to gratify or yield to others' wishes, especially rather than enforcing discipline or strictness. |
| lenitive |
mitigating pain, discomfort, or distress; soothing. |
| linguistics |
(used with a singular verb) the scientific and historical study of the form and structure of human language. |
| misanthrope |
someone who hates or distrusts humanity. |
| pliant |
easily flexed; supple. |
| pneumatic |
of, using, or concerning air or other gases. |
| pungent |
sharp and strong in taste or smell. |
| shibboleth |
a slogan, phrase, or belief that characterizes or is held devotedly by a group. |