| 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. |
| austere |
having only what is needed; very simple or plain. |
| beatify |
to admire or exalt as superior. |
| ensconce |
to position (oneself) firmly or comfortably. |
| equivocal |
having at least two plausible alternative meanings, often intentionally so in order to deceive or avoid commitment; ambiguous. |
| forswear |
to give up or renounce, often with an oath or pledge. |
| interdict |
to deter or impede by the steady use of firepower. |
| malapropism |
the humorous or ridiculous misuse of a word, especially by using a word that sounds similar to the correct word, but whose meaning is inappropriate. |
| nonfeasance |
in law, failure to perform a required duty, as by a public official. |
| pedagogy |
the act, process, or profession of teaching. |
| pretentious |
assuming or marked by an air of importance or superiority that is unwarranted. |
| reprisal |
injury inflicted in retaliation for injury received, as in war; revenge. |
| sagacious |
possessing or characterized by good judgment and common sense; wise. |
| sanguine |
having an optimistic temperament or outlook. |
| splenetic |
ill-tempered or spiteful. |