| asceticism |
self-discipline and self-denial as a means of spiritual improvement. |
| calumny |
a harmful statement, known by the maker to be false. |
| canny |
difficult to fool or take advantage of; shrewd; wary; clever. |
| conjoin |
to combine for a common purpose. |
| debauch |
to lead or seduce into immorality or intemperance; corrupt. |
| determinism |
the belief or teaching that every effect, including human thoughts and actions, is completely and predictably brought about by preceding causes and that, therefore, free will does not exist. |
| disencumber |
to remove burdens or hindrances from. |
| flak |
(informal) irritating opposition, criticism, or dissent. |
| impermeable |
not permitting passage or penetration. |
| magnum opus |
a great work of art, literature, or music, especially a particular person's masterpiece. |
| opiate |
something that induces relaxation, calm, or stupor. |
| ostentation |
a showy display to impress others. |
| peripatetic |
walking or traveling around; going from place to place; itinerant. |
| sepsis |
infection, especially by pus-forming bacteria in the blood or tissues. |
| vouchsafe |
to grant or give with condescension or as a special favor. |