| affable |
pleasant to talk to and be with; friendly; likeable. |
| brandish |
to wave or shake (something such as a weapon) in a threatening or agitated manner. |
| burlesque |
a book, play, skit, or the like that mocks something by comically treating it with inappropriate seriousness or levity. |
| caucus |
a private meeting of leaders of a political party to choose candidates or determine policy, or such a group itself. |
| discredit |
to harm the reputation of. |
| disparage |
to depreciate or belittle, especially in speech. |
| dysfunctional |
of a relationship, family, or social group, not working normally or in a way beneficial to all. |
| escalation |
increase in amount, scope, or intensity. |
| jurisdiction |
the right or authority to interpret and administer the law. |
| ramshackle |
poorly constructed or in disrepair; rickety. |
| reciprocity |
a mutual interchange of privileges or favors between two nations, groups, or institutions. |
| redolent |
suggesting or recalling (usually followed by "of"). |
| supersede |
to take over the position or influence of; replace. |
| temperance |
habitual moderation in the use of alcoholic drink, or complete abstinence. |
| voluminous |
having or characterized by great size or quantity. |