| argot |
the vocabulary or jargon characteristic of a specific group or class, especially of criminals. |
| ascertain |
to learn without question; determine. |
| berate |
to reproach or scold severely. |
| caste |
the status conferred by the class to which one belongs. |
| centripetal |
forced or moving inward toward a center point or axis. |
| contumely |
contemptuous insolence; rudeness. |
| declivity |
a downward or descending slope. |
| expatiate |
to discuss something at great length; describe in great detail. |
| exponent |
one that expounds or interprets. |
| guru |
in a cult or religious movement, a spiritual guide or leader, sometimes believed to be divine. |
| mahatma |
(sometimes capitalized) in Buddhism and theosophy, any of a class of persons revered for their wisdom and love of humanity. |
| preferment |
the act of promoting or being promoted to a higher position or office. |
| recidivism |
chronic return to bad habits, especially criminal relapse. |
| Saturnalia |
an occasion of unrestrained revelry. |
| sotto voce |
in a low voice or undertone, so as not to be overheard; softly (often used as a musical direction). |