• caterwauling
    verb
    to make a shrill howling or wailing noise.
  • nostrum
    noun
    an ineffective medicine prepared by an unqualified individual.
  • unguent
    noun
    a soft, viscous substance used as an ointment or lubricant.
  • japery
    noun
    the act of acting foolish and mocking.
  • caliphate
    noun
    an institution under the leadership of an Islamic steward who is considered as a successor to the Islamic prophet Muhammad and the leader of the Muslim world.
  • catafalque
    noun
    a decorated wooden framework supporting a coffin of a distinguished person.
  • caisson
    noun
    a large watertight chamber that is open at the bottom.
  • obeisance
    noun
    a gesture of deferential respect such as a bow or curtsy.
  • crenellations
    noun
    the battlements of a castle.
  • mawkish
    adj
    sentimental in a feeble way.
  • pellucid
    adj
    translucently clear.
  • baluster
    noun
    an upright support, often a vertical moulded shaft found in stairways.
  • inimical
    adj
    unfriendly; hostile.
  • tureen
    noun
    a deep and covered bowl used for serving foods.
  • lambent
    adj
    glowing or flickering with a soft radiance.
  • slattern
    noun
    a dirty, untidy woman.
  • lissome
    adj
    thin, supple and graceful.
  • hostler
    noun
    someone employed to look after the horses of people staying at an inn.
  • cozen
    verb
    to trick or deceive.
  • weal
    noun
    a red, swollen mark left on the flesh as a result of a blow.