| aberration |
a deviation from what is considered normal or right; irregularity. |
| acclivity |
a rising slope. |
| apprise |
to inform (often followed by "of"). |
| constrict |
to pull or squeeze in; make smaller or more narrow; tighten. |
| duress |
intimidation or coercion. |
| heinous |
extremely wicked or despicable; atrocious. |
| iatrogenic |
caused by a physician or medical treatment, especially from drugs or surgery. |
| imprimatur |
any official permission or sanction. |
| incursion |
a raid or sudden invasion. |
| ingenuous |
having or showing simplicity and lack of sophistication; artless. |
| malfeasance |
an illegal act or wrongdoing, especially by a public official. |
| perilous |
causing or involving great danger; risky; hazardous. |
| prerogative |
an exclusive right or privilege derived from one's office, position, age, citizenship, birth, or the like. |
| sotto voce |
in a low voice or undertone, so as not to be overheard; softly (often used as a musical direction). |
| vouchsafe |
to grant or give with condescension or as a special favor. |