| ambidextrous |
able to use both the left and right hands with equal skill. |
| ascertain |
to learn without question; determine. |
| deign |
to consider some act to be appropriate or in keeping with one's dignity; condescend. |
| determinism |
the belief or teaching that every effect, including human thoughts and actions, is completely and predictably brought about by preceding causes and that, therefore, free will does not exist. |
| expatiate |
to discuss something at great length; describe in great detail. |
| heinous |
extremely wicked or despicable; atrocious. |
| impugn |
to call into question; challenge or try to discredit. |
| linguistics |
(used with a singular verb) the scientific and historical study of the form and structure of human language. |
| magnum opus |
a great work of art, literature, or music, especially a particular person's masterpiece. |
| mélange |
a mixture, usually of very dissimilar elements. |
| plaudit |
(often plural) an enthusiastic show of approval, such as a round of applause or a very favorable review. |
| reprisal |
injury inflicted in retaliation for injury received, as in war; revenge. |
| scabrous |
characterized by a rough or scaly surface, as the leaf of a plant. |
| veneration |
a feeling of great respect; awe; reverence. |
| voluble |
characterized by a steady flow of words; fluent; talkative. |