| benign |
causing little or no harm. |
| colloquialism |
a word or phrase typically used in conversational, informal, or regional speech or writing, hence sometimes considered inappropriate in formal writing. |
| convoluted |
complex; intricate. |
| gird |
to surround, bind, or encircle, as with a belt. |
| intransigence |
refusal to alter one's ideas or position in response to the wishes of others. |
| meretricious |
appealing or attracting in a cheap, showy, or shallow way. |
| parlous |
full of dangers or risks; perilous. |
| paroxysm |
a sudden strong outburst of feelings or actions. |
| pedantic |
making or characterized by an excessive display of learnedness, or overly insistent on scholarly details and formalities. |
| phlegmatic |
not given to shows of emotion or interest; slow to excite. |
| scion |
an offspring or heir. |
| sepsis |
infection, especially by pus-forming bacteria in the blood or tissues. |
| shibboleth |
a slogan, phrase, or belief that characterizes or is held devotedly by a group. |
| stipple |
a method of painting, drawing, or engraving by applying small points, dots, or dabs to a surface. |
| virago |
a shrewish, domineering woman; nag or scold. |