| benign |
causing little or no harm. |
| chary |
not dispensing freely. |
| decedent |
in law, one who has died. |
| dissimulate |
to hide one's true feelings, intentions, or the like by pretense or hypocrisy. |
| ensconce |
to position (oneself) firmly or comfortably. |
| gadfly |
a persistent critic, especially of established institutions and policies. |
| granulate |
to make into small particles or grains. |
| impediment |
an obstacle or hindrance. |
| incumbent |
currently holding an office or position. |
| knurled |
having small ridges. |
| misfeasance |
a normally lawful act performed in an unlawful way. |
| oblique |
not direct or straightforward in intent, means, or achievement; indirect or devious. |
| plaudit |
(often plural) an enthusiastic show of approval, such as a round of applause or a very favorable review. |
| trabeated |
using horizontal beams or lintels as supports instead of arches. |
| vouchsafe |
to grant or give with condescension or as a special favor. |