Chapter 17 and 18

1. culminate - a. to reach the highest point or degree b. to come to completion; to end 2. eclipse - a. to exceed or go beyond; to diminish b. to obscure or darken 3. epitome - an example; a perfect representation of a type 4. impeccable - having no flaws; perfect; incapable of wrongdoing 5. inimitable — impossible to imitate or copy; unique 6. optimum - a. (adj) most favorable or advantageous; best b.(noun) the point at which something is most favorable 7. peerless - having no match; incomparable 8. quintessence - the purest essence of something; the most typical example 9. sublime - a. (adj) impressive: awe inspiring; supreme b. (noun) something awe-inspiring 10. zenith (noun) - the peak 11. affront - a. (verb) to insult intentionally and openly b. (noun) open or intentional offense, slight, or insult 12. altercation - a noisy on an intense quarrel 13. bellicose - warlike in manner or temperament; eager to fight; aggressive 14. breach - a. (noun) a break in friendly relations; an estrangement b. (noun) a violation of a law, an obligation, or a promise c.(verb) to violate a law, an obligation, or a promise 15. contentious - a. given to quarreling: argumentative b. involving or likely to cause argument; controversial 16. decimate - to destroy or kill a large part of a group 17. dissension - difference of opinion; disagreement; discord 18. rancor - bitter, long-lasting resentment; deep-seated ill will; enmity 19. retribution- a. something justly deserved b. something given or demanded in repayment, especially as punishment or revenge 20. schism- a separation or division into opposing groups or factions; discord or discontent