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curtal

noun: 1. A woodwind instrument, an early form of bassoon, also known as a dulcian. 2. An animal with a tail docked …

dialectic

noun: A discussion employed in investigating the truth of a thesis. adjective: Relating to such a discussion.

commensurate

adjective: 1. Proportionate. 2. Having the same measure.

constitutional

noun: A walk taken for one’s health. adjective: 1. Relating to the constitution, a set of principles governing a state, organization, etc. …

clamant

adjective: 1. Loud. 2. Demanding attention; urgent.

raffish

adjective: 1. Vulgar or tawdry. 2. Unconventional; carefree; rakish.

eidolon

noun: 1. An idealized form. 2. A phantom.

aquabib

noun: 1. A water-drinker. 2. A teetotaler.

akrasia

noun: The lack of will or self-control resulting in one acting against one’s better judgment.

contrafactum

noun: A composition that makes use of an existing piece of music with different lyrics.

misericord

noun: 1. Compassion, pity, or mercy. 2. Something to provide support to a standing person. Typically a small projection from the underside …

diplomatics

noun: The study of documents, especially historical documents, in an effort to authenticate, date, interpret, etc.

mamaguy

verb tr.: To tease or deceive, especially by flattery. noun: An instance of this.

obviate

verb tr.: To render unnecessary; to remove, avoid, or prevent.

philocynic

noun: A dog lover. adjective: Fond of dogs.

Hawthorne effect

noun: An improvement in workers’ performance attributed to the special attention they received when singled out for a study.

Grand Guignol

noun: An event, entertainment, etc., of a sensational or horrific nature. adjective: Gruesome, grotesque, or horrifying.

tammany

adjective: Relating to political corruption.