Word of the Day Archive
February 2003
- introspection: the act or process of self-examination; reflection.
- propound: to put forward for consideration.
- neophyte: a novice.
- rapport: relation characterized by sympathetic understanding.
- imbroglio: a complicated and embarrassing state of things.
- rictus: a gaping grin or grimace.
- winsome: light-hearted.
- melee: a confused conflict.
- obdurate: hardened in feelings or in wrongdoing; unyielding.
- placate: to appease; to pacify.
- spurious: not genuine; false; illegitimate.
- waylay: to ambush or accost.
- ingenue: a naive girl or young woman, or an actress representing such a person.
- osculation: the act of kissing; a kiss.
- voluptuary: a person devoted to luxury and the gratification of sensual appetites.
- enmity: hatred; ill will.
- sub rosa: secretly; privately; confidentially.
- compunction: anxiety or unease from guilt; also, a scruple.
- upbraid: to scold or criticize harshly.
- gaucherie: a socially awkward or tactless act; also, lack of tact.
- aggress: to make an attack.
- mores: customs; habits; ways.
- sough: to make a soft, low sighing or rustling sound.
- chimerical: merely imaginary; fanciful.
- grandee: a man of elevated rank or station; a nobleman.
- complaisant: exhibiting a desire to please.
- spoony: foolishly or sentimentally in love.
- forfend: to avert; also, to protect or preserve.
