| attrition |
a gradual erosion of strength or morale. |
| cistern |
a tank or other receptacle for catching and storing water, especially rainwater. |
| climactic |
pertaining to, reaching, or being the point of highest interest or intensity in a series of increasingly important points or events. |
| dais |
a raised platform for speakers or the seating of special guests. |
| deleterious |
harmful or injurious, as to health. |
| effigy |
a likeness of a person, usually sculpted, as on a tomb. |
| inclusive |
comprising or covering a great deal; comprehensive. |
| obituary |
a printed announcement of a person's death, usually including a brief biography and information about funeral arrangements. |
| prospectus |
a written description or summary of a proposed project. |
| protégé |
a person under the care or sponsorship of an influential patron. |
| resonance |
ability to make a strong or lasting effect, especially because of an emotional association. |
| retaliate |
to strike back; take revenge. |
| stymie |
throw an obstacle in the way of (something or someone); impede; thwart. |
| tirade |
a long, forceful, or angry speech, often critical or denunciatory in nature; harangue. |
| wrest |
to take away with, or as if with, a twist or pull. |