| broach |
to suggest or mention for the first time; bring up. |
| bulwark |
a wall or wall-like structure, often made of earth and used for defense; rampart. |
| caustic |
bitingly critical. |
| diminutive |
very small; tiny. |
| equanimity |
the quality of remaining calm, serene, or unruffled, especially under stress; composure. |
| invective |
strongly abusive or denunciatory speech or language. |
| mettle |
toughness of character; courage. |
| obsequious |
showing or tending to show servile obedience or deference; fawning. |
| opalescent |
exhibiting a spectrum of colors or changing colors; iridescent. |
| pivotal |
critically important or crucial; on which something is contingent. |
| provincial |
limited in outlook; narrow-minded. |
| recompense |
payment or action to compensate for the expenditure or loss of time, money, property, or the like. |
| remit |
to refrain from carrying out; cancel. |
| retention |
the act or process of maintaining the possession or use of. |
| servitude |
bondage or slavery. |