| accretion |
the process of gradual increase or growth, especially by additions from the outside. |
| antebellum |
in or of the period prior to a war, especially the American Civil War. |
| blandishment |
(often plural) flattering or coaxing remarks or stratagems intended to persuade. |
| conduction |
the transmission or transfer, as of heat, electrical charges, or nervous impulses, through a medium. |
| consummate |
of the highest order or degree. |
| corollary |
a readily drawn conclusion; deduction or inference. |
| desideratum |
something that is needed or wanted. |
| expound |
to discuss or explain in detail (usually followed by "on" or "upon"). |
| gullible |
believing almost anything; easily tricked. |
| impugn |
to call into question; challenge or try to discredit. |
| malfeasance |
an illegal act or wrongdoing, especially by a public official. |
| paroxysm |
a sudden strong outburst of feelings or actions. |
| Saturnalia |
an occasion of unrestrained revelry. |
| saturnine |
gloomy, sullen, or cynical in temperament or appearance. |
| stately |
dignified. |