| accretion |
the process of gradual increase or growth, especially by additions from the outside. |
| adulteration |
the act or process of making worse or impure by adding unnecessary or inferior ingredients. |
| apprise |
to inform (often followed by "of"). |
| austerity |
a tightened or stringent economy, as when there are high taxes, frozen wages, and shortages of consumer goods. |
| castellated |
constructed with turrets and battlements like a castle. |
| collateral |
property or other security put forward to guarantee repayment of a loan. |
| contretemps |
an embarrassing or unfortunate happening; mishap; mischance. |
| conversant |
familiar; acquainted; practiced (usually followed by "with" or "in"). |
| expound |
to discuss or explain in detail (usually followed by "on" or "upon"). |
| louche |
of questionable decency, morality, or taste; shady; disreputable. |
| obviate |
to prevent or eliminate in advance; render unnecessary or irrelevant. |
| peremptory |
not permitting refusal or disobedience. |
| redoubtable |
inspiring fear; formidable. |
| refulgent |
shining brilliantly; radiant. |
| tyro |
one who is beginning to learn a business, trade, sport, or the like; novice; neophyte. |