| calumny |
a harmful statement, known by the maker to be false. |
| cognoscente |
someone who has exceptional knowledge in a given area, especially of fashion, literature, or the fine arts; connoisseur. |
| consummate |
of the highest order or degree. |
| crass |
lacking in sensitivity or refinement; crude. |
| debauch |
to lead or seduce into immorality or intemperance; corrupt. |
| deposition |
a sworn statement, usually in writing, for use as testimony by an absent witness in a court of law. |
| diurnal |
occurring or active during, or belonging to, the daytime rather than nighttime. |
| doggerel |
trivial, crudely constructed verse. |
| ensconce |
to position (oneself) firmly or comfortably. |
| espouse |
to take up, hold, or commit oneself to (a cause, idea, or belief); embrace. |
| impinge |
to encroach. |
| indistinct |
not clearly perceived or perceiving. |
| limn |
to paint or draw. |
| perquisite |
a payment or benefit in addition to the wages or salary associated with a position. |
| sere1 |
dried up or withered. |