| accretion |
the process of gradual increase or growth, especially by additions from the outside. |
| ascertain |
to learn without question; determine. |
| calumny |
a harmful statement, known by the maker to be false. |
| cynosure |
a thing or person that is the center of attention and admiration. |
| derelict |
failing to fulfill one's responsibilities or obligations; remiss. |
| ensconce |
to position (oneself) firmly or comfortably. |
| expound |
to discuss or explain in detail (usually followed by "on" or "upon"). |
| extirpate |
to get rid of completely, as if by pulling up the roots; root out. |
| fulminate |
to vehemently denounce or criticize something. |
| goad |
something that spurs a person to action; stimulus. |
| neophyte |
a beginner or novice at any activity. |
| rapacious |
capable of capturing and eating live prey; predacious. |
| repose2 |
to put or place (confidence, hope, or the like) in someone or something. |
| uxorial |
of, pertaining to, or befitting a wife. |
| uxorious |
excessively or foolishly devoted to one's wife, and often thereby submissive to her. |