| atavism |
the recurrence or reappearance of a particular trait, style, attitude, or behavior that seemed to have disappeared, or that which has recurred or reappeared after such an absence. |
| attenuate |
to cause to be thin, rarefied, or fine. |
| belabor |
to continue excessive efforts on or excessive discussion of. |
| brash |
rudely self-assertive; bold; impudent. |
| canard |
a deliberately false story or rumor, usually defamatory to someone. |
| desideratum |
something that is needed or wanted. |
| devolve |
of a duty or the like, to be passed on to someone else. |
| discomfit |
to upset or confuse. |
| foible |
a minor flaw or weakness in personality, character, or behavior. |
| incumbent |
currently holding an office or position. |
| nonpareil |
a person or thing whose excellence is unequaled; paragon. |
| oppugn |
to oppose, contradict, criticize, or call into question. |
| perquisite |
a payment or benefit in addition to the wages or salary associated with a position. |
| sententious |
using or marked by pompous, high-flown moralizing. |
| sotto voce |
in a low voice or undertone, so as not to be overheard; softly (often used as a musical direction). |