| accretion |
the process of gradual increase or growth, especially by additions from the outside. |
| aplomb |
great self-confidence, composure, or poise. |
| attenuate |
to cause to be thin, rarefied, or fine. |
| baneful |
causing or leading to death, destruction, or ruin; harmful or deadly. |
| belabor |
to continue excessive efforts on or excessive discussion of. |
| belie |
to give a false impression of. |
| burgeon |
to start to grow; send forth shoots, leaves, buds, or the like (often followed by "out" or "forth"). |
| compunction |
uneasiness about the propriety or suitability of an action; qualm. |
| duress |
intimidation or coercion. |
| foment |
to encourage the development of; instigate or foster. |
| imbroglio |
a difficult, confused, or complicated situation, often involving a misunderstanding, disagreement, or quarrel. |
| lorgnette |
eyeglasses, such as opera glasses, that have a short handle by which one holds them in position. |
| louche |
of questionable decency, morality, or taste; shady; disreputable. |
| penumbra |
an indefinite, borderline area. |
| stipple |
a method of painting, drawing, or engraving by applying small points, dots, or dabs to a surface. |