| discountenance |
to embarrass or disconcert. |
| disquisition |
a formal, often lengthy, oral or written discussion of a subject. |
| epigraph |
a pertinent quotation or motto, especially found at the beginning of a literary work or of a chapter. |
| extralegal |
not regulated or permitted by law; outside of legal authority. |
| gamut |
the whole extent or range of anything. |
| goad |
something that spurs a person to action; stimulus. |
| indistinct |
not clearly perceived or perceiving. |
| lambent |
glowing softly. |
| lanugo |
fine, soft hair, especially that with which a human fetus or newborn is covered. |
| nonplus |
to cause (someone) to be unable to think of what to say, do, or decide; perplex; bewilder. |
| 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. |
| plaudit |
(often plural) an enthusiastic show of approval, such as a round of applause or a very favorable review. |
| sanctimony |
a pretense of righteousness or piety; feigned devotion or holiness. |
| virago |
a shrewish, domineering woman; nag or scold. |