| austere |
having only what is needed; very simple or plain. |
| caparison |
decorative trappings to cover a horse's saddle or harness. |
| consummate |
of the highest order or degree. |
| cyst |
a small pouch within body tissue that is filled with fluid or air. Some cysts are connected with serious disease, but most are not harmful at all. |
| determinism |
the belief or teaching that every effect, including human thoughts and actions, is completely and predictably brought about by preceding causes and that, therefore, free will does not exist. |
| disabuse |
to free (a person) from misconception or deception; set straight. |
| epistolary |
established or continued through letters. |
| fracas |
a noisy disturbance or quarrel. |
| idyllic |
charmingly simple and natural, as a scene or experience; suggestive of peaceful countryside. |
| impermeable |
not permitting passage or penetration. |
| inadvertent |
not planned or intended; unintentional. |
| lorgnette |
eyeglasses, such as opera glasses, that have a short handle by which one holds them in position. |
| reprise |
repetition of a musical phrase or theme in an identical or slightly altered way. |
| shyster |
a person, usually a lawyer, who uses underhanded, unethical methods. |
| virago |
a shrewish, domineering woman; nag or scold. |