GAW 2023

atrophy

gradually decline in effectiveness or __vigor__ due to __underuse__ or neglect.

acerbic

sharp and __forthright__

broach

raise (a sensitive or difficult subject) for discussion.

coterie

a small group of people with shared interests or tastes, especially one that is exclusive of other people.

churlish

rude in a __mean-spirited__ and __surly__ way.

contentious  

causing or likely to cause an argument; controversial.

copious 

abundant in supply or quantity.

corpulence

the state of being fat; obesity.

demagogue

a political leader who seeks support by appealing to the desires and __prejudices__ of ordinary people rather than by using __rational__ argument.

furtive

attempting to avoid notice or attention, typically because of __guilt__ or a belief that discovery would lead to trouble; secretive.

inveigh

speak or write about (something) with great __hostility__.

laconic

(of a person, speech, or style of writing) using very few words.

paragon

a person or thing regarded as a perfect example of a particular quality.

recalcitrant

having an obstinately uncooperative attitude toward authority or discipline.

taciturn

(of a person) reserved or uncommunicative in speech; saying little.

  acuity

__sharpness__ or __keenness__ of thought, vision, or hearing.

avarice

extreme greed for wealth or material gain.

avow

assert or confess __openly__.

divination

the practice of seeking knowledge of the future or the unknown by __supernatural__ means.

duplicity

deceitfulness; double-dealing.

equivocation

the use of __ambiguous__ language to __conceal__ the truth or to avoid committing __oneself__; prevarication.

foible

a minor weakness or __eccentricity__ in someone's character.

guile

__sly__ or cunning intelligence.

hoary

old and trite.

maudlin

self-pityingly or __tearfully__ sentimental, often through __drunkenness__.