verb - to speak or express opinions in a way that shows you think you are always right or know everything, especially in a pompous or dogmatic way
noun - a difficult or dangerous situation, especially one that is serious or unfortunate
noun - the group of people or ideas that are at the forefront of new developments or movements
noun - the act of treating a holy place or object in a way that does not show proper respect; a violation or misuse of something regarded as sacred
noun - a distinctive atmosphere or quality that seems to surround a person, place, or thing
noun - a small decorative mat, usually made of lace or paper, placed under objects such as plates or vases to protect surfaces or for ornament
noun - the last name of a popular American fantasy writer (Sarah J.)
noun - the most important or difficult part of a problem, issue, or argument
verb, formal - to combine or unite to form one structure, organization, or substance
noun, technical - the language or dialect spoken by ordinary people in a particular country or region
adjective, technical - spoken or written in the native language of a particular region or group; characteristic of everyday, informal, or local speech or style
noun, technical - a machine tool used for shaping solid materials, especially metal, by cutting away parts with a rotating tool
noun - a person who supports and protects someone or something from attack or criticism
noun - a player whose role is to stop the opposing team from scoring, especially in football (soccer) or similar sports
verb, formal - to suggest or assume the existence, fact, or truth of something as a basis for reasoning or discussion, especially as a principle to be accepted without proof