| amortize |
to deduct (expenditures) by fixed amounts over a period of time. |
| ascertain |
to learn without question; determine. |
| Byzantine |
characterized by complexity and intrigue. |
| desiccate |
to remove the moisture in (food) so as to preserve it. |
| deter |
to stop or discourage from some action by creating doubt or fear. |
| Draconian |
(often lower case) harshly cruel or rigorous. |
| heterodox |
deviating from an officially approved belief or doctrine, especially in religion. |
| homily |
any discourse offering moral advice or admonitions. |
| inveigle |
to entice or ensnare by clever talk or flattery. |
| macrocosm |
a large unit or entity that represents on a large scale one of its smaller components. |
| munificent |
having or showing great generosity. |
| oblique |
not direct or straightforward in intent, means, or achievement; indirect or devious. |
| sanctimony |
a pretense of righteousness or piety; feigned devotion or holiness. |
| sotto voce |
in a low voice or undertone, so as not to be overheard; softly (often used as a musical direction). |
| symbiosis |
a close association, usually a mutually beneficial relationship, between two dissimilar organisms. |