| asceticism |
self-discipline and self-denial as a means of spiritual improvement. |
| calumny |
a harmful statement, known by the maker to be false. |
| curmudgeon |
an irritable or ill-tempered person. |
| diurnal |
occurring or active during, or belonging to, the daytime rather than nighttime. |
| ensconce |
to position (oneself) firmly or comfortably. |
| extenuate |
to reduce the magnitude or seriousness of (a fault or offense) by offering partial excuses. |
| indolence |
the tendency to avoid exertion or effort; laziness. |
| innocuous |
not capable of causing damage; harmless. |
| ligature |
a band or tie. |
| modular |
designed with standardized units that may be arranged or connected in a variety of ways. |
| opprobrious |
expressing condemnation or scorn; accusing of shameful behavior. |
| penumbra |
an indefinite, borderline area. |
| peripatetic |
walking or traveling around; going from place to place; itinerant. |
| reprobate |
an evil or lawless person, often beyond hope of redemption. |
| woebegone |
displaying or full of distress. |