| Byzantine |
characterized by complexity and intrigue. |
| constrict |
to pull or squeeze in; make smaller or more narrow; tighten. |
| delectation |
enjoyment; delight; pleasure. |
| deterge |
to cleanse, wash, or wipe off. |
| effete |
marked by excessive refinement or delicateness of taste. |
| extrinsic |
not inherent or essential; extraneous. |
| humanism |
a doctrine or mode of thought that gives highest importance to human dignity, values, potentials, and achievements. |
| insipid |
having a bland or uninteresting flavor; tasteless. |
| malinger |
to pretend illness or injury, especially in order to be excused from duty or work. |
| mésalliance |
marriage with someone of lower social standing than oneself. |
| ostentation |
a showy display to impress others. |
| parlous |
full of dangers or risks; perilous. |
| pungency |
sharpness or bite in taste or smell. |
| revetment |
a facing of stone, masonry, or the like to support or protect a wall, embankment, or mound of earth. |
| virago |
a shrewish, domineering woman; nag or scold. |