| ambidextrous |
able to use both the left and right hands with equal skill. |
| ascertain |
to learn without question; determine. |
| cynosure |
a thing or person that is the center of attention and admiration. |
| dearth |
a shortage or scarcity of something; lack. |
| demulcent |
an oily or sticky substance used especially to soothe irritation in mucous membranes. |
| derelict |
failing to fulfill one's responsibilities or obligations; remiss. |
| epicene |
sharing the traits of both sexes. |
| imbricate |
overlapping in an even sequence, as roof tiles or fish scales. |
| impromptu |
without advance plan or preparation; spontaneously. |
| magnum opus |
a great work of art, literature, or music, especially a particular person's masterpiece. |
| peremptory |
not permitting refusal or disobedience. |
| recurve |
to bend or curve back or backward, as the ends of certain shooting bows. |
| sotto voce |
in a low voice or undertone, so as not to be overheard; softly (often used as a musical direction). |
| splenetic |
ill-tempered or spiteful. |
| stative |
in grammar, of or designating a category of verbs that express state or condition. |