| apprise |
to inform (often followed by "of"). |
| askance |
with distrust or suspicion. |
| constrict |
to pull or squeeze in; make smaller or more narrow; tighten. |
| curmudgeon |
an irritable or ill-tempered person. |
| deign |
to consider some act to be appropriate or in keeping with one's dignity; condescend. |
| derelict |
failing to fulfill one's responsibilities or obligations; remiss. |
| discountenance |
to embarrass or disconcert. |
| encomium |
a formal expression of praise. |
| espouse |
to take up, hold, or commit oneself to (a cause, idea, or belief); embrace. |
| exceptionable |
likely to be objected to; objectionable. |
| expound |
to discuss or explain in detail (usually followed by "on" or "upon"). |
| inchoate |
partially or imperfectly developed. |
| magnum opus |
a great work of art, literature, or music, especially a particular person's masterpiece. |
| saturnine |
gloomy, sullen, or cynical in temperament or appearance. |
| scion |
an offspring or heir. |