| amortize |
to deduct (expenditures) by fixed amounts over a period of time. |
| coddle |
to simmer in water that is almost at the boiling point. |
| contretemps |
an embarrassing or unfortunate happening; mishap; mischance. |
| curmudgeon |
an irritable or ill-tempered person. |
| discountenance |
to embarrass or disconcert. |
| figurehead |
a person whose title sounds important but who has no real power. |
| guttural |
articulated in the back of the mouth; velar. |
| immiscible |
not able to be mixed or blended. |
| insouciant |
having no cares or anxieties; light-hearted; carefree. |
| obtrude |
to thrust or force (oneself, one's concerns, or one's opinions) on another or others without being asked. |
| paroxysm |
a sudden strong outburst of feelings or actions. |
| parvenu |
a person who has suddenly acquired wealth or status, without acquiring the tastes, manners, customs, or the like of his or her new station. |
| quotidian |
happening every day or once a day. |
| recidivism |
chronic return to bad habits, especially criminal relapse. |
| sotto voce |
in a low voice or undertone, so as not to be overheard; softly (often used as a musical direction). |