| ambidextrous |
able to use both the left and right hands with equal skill. |
| antebellum |
in or of the period prior to a war, especially the American Civil War. |
| asceticism |
self-discipline and self-denial as a means of spiritual improvement. |
| astute |
keen in understanding and judgment; shrewd. |
| augury |
the art or practice or an instance of predicting the future or obtaining hidden knowledge by interpreting omens. |
| contumacious |
stubbornly disobedient; insubordinate; rebellious. |
| exceptionable |
likely to be objected to; objectionable. |
| guttural |
articulated in the back of the mouth; velar. |
| homily |
any discourse offering moral advice or admonitions. |
| interdict |
to deter or impede by the steady use of firepower. |
| ostentation |
a showy display to impress others. |
| reprobate |
an evil or lawless person, often beyond hope of redemption. |
| savor |
to give an impression; hint (usually followed by "of"). |
| sepsis |
infection, especially by pus-forming bacteria in the blood or tissues. |
| stipple |
a method of painting, drawing, or engraving by applying small points, dots, or dabs to a surface. |