| academicism |
in the arts, rigid adherence to accepted and traditional forms. |
| Byzantine |
characterized by complexity and intrigue. |
| cantankerous |
irritable, stubborn, and quarrelsome. |
| contretemps |
an embarrassing or unfortunate happening; mishap; mischance. |
| contumacious |
stubbornly disobedient; insubordinate; rebellious. |
| delectation |
enjoyment; delight; pleasure. |
| ersatz |
serving as a substitute, especially when of inferior quality. |
| expostulate |
to argue earnestly with someone, usually against an intended action; remonstrate. |
| foment |
to encourage the development of; instigate or foster. |
| hirsute |
covered with hair or stiff hairs; hairy or shaggy. |
| nonfeasance |
in law, failure to perform a required duty, as by a public official. |
| penury |
severe poverty; pennilessness. |
| perilous |
causing or involving great danger; risky; hazardous. |
| stately |
dignified. |
| tyro |
one who is beginning to learn a business, trade, sport, or the like; novice; neophyte. |