| aplomb |
great self-confidence, composure, or poise. |
| argot |
the vocabulary or jargon characteristic of a specific group or class, especially of criminals. |
| ascertain |
to learn without question; determine. |
| curmudgeon |
an irritable or ill-tempered person. |
| deter |
to stop or discourage from some action by creating doubt or fear. |
| disencumber |
to remove burdens or hindrances from. |
| extralegal |
not regulated or permitted by law; outside of legal authority. |
| foment |
to encourage the development of; instigate or foster. |
| idiosyncrasy |
a characteristic of temperament, habit, or physical structure particular to a given individual or group; peculiarity. |
| inanition |
a state of exhaustion caused by a lack of nourishment. |
| intransigence |
refusal to alter one's ideas or position in response to the wishes of others. |
| lorgnette |
eyeglasses, such as opera glasses, that have a short handle by which one holds them in position. |
| ostentation |
a showy display to impress others. |
| scion |
an offspring or heir. |
| stipple |
a method of painting, drawing, or engraving by applying small points, dots, or dabs to a surface. |