verb - to make someone or something seem less important or successful by comparison
noun - a strange or unusual feature, detail, or habit; something that is distinctive or odd
adverb, formal - used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or reverses one that has just been made
adjective, formal - showing respect and politeness to someone, especially someone in a position of authority or higher status
verb - to talk to someone or write to them regularly, so you don’t lose contact
noun, formal - kindness or mercy shown to someone, especially when punishing them
adjective - very silly or stupid; lacking meaning or sense
noun, technical - the right to hold a property or a piece of land, often for a specific period or with legal security
noun - the condition or period of holding a position or office