| ascertain |
to learn without question; determine. |
| atavism |
the recurrence or reappearance of a particular trait, style, attitude, or behavior that seemed to have disappeared, or that which has recurred or reappeared after such an absence. |
| coir |
the fiber made from coconut husks, used for matting, rope, or the like. |
| compunction |
uneasiness about the propriety or suitability of an action; qualm. |
| disquisition |
a formal, often lengthy, oral or written discussion of a subject. |
| gossamer |
delicately fine, gauzelike, or filmy. |
| hackneyed |
made trite or commonplace by overuse, as an expression or phrase. |
| incumbent |
currently holding an office or position. |
| lanugo |
fine, soft hair, especially that with which a human fetus or newborn is covered. |
| modus operandi |
a method of accomplishing something; way of working. |
| peroration |
the concluding part of a speech in which there is a summing up of the principal points. |
| plaudit |
(often plural) an enthusiastic show of approval, such as a round of applause or a very favorable review. |
| preferment |
the act of promoting or being promoted to a higher position or office. |
| pretentious |
assuming or marked by an air of importance or superiority that is unwarranted. |
| redoubtable |
inspiring fear; formidable. |