Interpreter of Maladies (Lahiri)

elusive (adj.): difficult to detect or grasp by the mind or analyze

superfluous (adj.): more than is needed, desired, or required

reciprocate (v.): act, feel, or give mutually or in return

compatriot (n.): a person from your own country

covet (v.): wish, long, or crave for

solemnly (adv.): in a serious and dignified manner

barter (v.): exchange goods without involving money

itinerant (adj.): traveling from place to place to work

litany (n.): any long and tedious address or recital

mischievous (adj.): naughtily or annoyingly playful

complexion (n.): texture and appearance of the skin of the face

flourish (n.): an ornamental embellishment in writing

sari (n.): a draped dress worn primarily by Hindu women

nettle (v.): disturb, especially by minor irritations

sacrilegious (adj.): grossly irreverent toward what is considered holy

antidote (n.): a remedy that stops or controls the effects of a poison

privation (n.): the act of stripping someone of food, money, or rights

vindicate (v.): clear of accusation, blame, or doubt with supporting proof

oblivious (adj.): lacking conscious awareness of

decipher (v.): make out the meaning of