| 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. |
| effrontery |
shameless impudence; insolence. |
| figurehead |
a person whose title sounds important but who has no real power. |
| gambit |
a tactic or maneuver designed to gain an advantage, especially one that involves some sacrifice on one's part. |
| ingenuous |
having or showing simplicity and lack of sophistication; artless. |
| lanugo |
fine, soft hair, especially that with which a human fetus or newborn is covered. |
| mendicant |
living on charity; begging. |
| oblique |
not direct or straightforward in intent, means, or achievement; indirect or devious. |
| obtrude |
to thrust or force (oneself, one's concerns, or one's opinions) on another or others without being asked. |
| opprobrious |
expressing condemnation or scorn; accusing of shameful behavior. |
| paroxysm |
a sudden strong outburst of feelings or actions. |
| pliant |
easily flexed; supple. |
| redoubtable |
inspiring fear; formidable. |
| remonstrate |
to say in opposition, protest, or objection. |
| topography |
the shape of the earth's surface across an area or region. The topography of an area includes the size and location of hills and dips in the land. |