| academicism |
in the arts, rigid adherence to accepted and traditional forms. |
| acclivity |
a rising slope. |
| ascertain |
to learn without question; determine. |
| blithe |
indifferent or casual; unconcerned. |
| canard |
a deliberately false story or rumor, usually defamatory to someone. |
| crass |
lacking in sensitivity or refinement; crude. |
| derelict |
failing to fulfill one's responsibilities or obligations; remiss. |
| epistolary |
established or continued through letters. |
| humanism |
a doctrine or mode of thought that gives highest importance to human dignity, values, potentials, and achievements. |
| obtrude |
to thrust or force (oneself, one's concerns, or one's opinions) on another or others without being asked. |
| obviate |
to prevent or eliminate in advance; render unnecessary or irrelevant. |
| pelf |
money or wealth, usually regarded with disapproval or contempt. |
| profligate |
totally given over to immoral and shameful pursuits; dissolute. |
| schadenfreude |
(often capitalized) pleasure derived from the misfortune of others. |
| uxorial |
of, pertaining to, or befitting a wife. |