intractable \in-TRAK-tuh-buhl\ (adjective) - 1 : Not easily governed, managed, or directed; stubborn; obstinate; as, "an intractable child." 2 : Not easily wrought or manipulated; as, "intractable materials." 3 : Not ...Read More

clinquant \KLING-kunt\ (adjective) - Glittering with gold or silver; tinseled.

(noun) - Tinsel; imitation gold leaf.

"Beaming, the lady held out a purse, heavy and all clinquant, as the man says, with gold." -- Kage ...Read More

cant \KANT\ (noun) - 1 : The idioms and peculiarities of speech in any sect, class, or occupation. 2 : The use of religious phraseology without understanding or sincerity. 3 : Empty, solemn speech, implying what is not ...Read More

avuncular \uh-VUHNG-kyuh-luhr\ (adjective) - 1 : Of or pertaining to an uncle. 2 : Resembling an uncle, especially in kindness or indulgence.

"He had found himself at parties recently taking on the role of someone ...Read More

patina \PAT-n-uh; puh-TEEN-uh\ (noun) - 1 : The color or incrustation which age gives to works of art; especially, the green rust which covers ancient bronzes, coins, and medals. 2 : The sheen on any surface, produced by ...Read More

obtrude \uhb-TROOD; ob-\ (transitive verb) - 1 : To thrust out; to push out. 2 : To force or impose (one's self, remarks, opinions, etc.) on others with undue insistence or without solicitation.

(intransitive verb) - To ...Read More