| abash |
to cause to feel embarrassed, uneasy, or ashamed. |
| academicism |
in the arts, rigid adherence to accepted and traditional forms. |
| Byzantine |
characterized by complexity and intrigue. |
| coddle |
to simmer in water that is almost at the boiling point. |
| contumely |
contemptuous insolence; rudeness. |
| dearth |
a shortage or scarcity of something; lack. |
| derision |
mockery or ridicule. |
| disquisition |
a formal, often lengthy, oral or written discussion of a subject. |
| flak |
(informal) irritating opposition, criticism, or dissent. |
| gloaming |
late evening; dusk; twilight. |
| mendicant |
living on charity; begging. |
| noisome |
offensive or disgusting, especially in smell; foul. |
| pungency |
sharpness or bite in taste or smell. |
| sanguine |
having an optimistic temperament or outlook. |
| tummler |
an entertainer or social director who encourages participation by guests or audience. |