Construe
Definition: to understand the meaning of a word, a sentence, or an action in a particular way
Usage: It is better to be upfront and clear in one's communication lest the listeners construe something that was never meant
Exonerated
Definition: to officially state that someone is not responsible for something that they have been blamed for
Usage: The defense attorney searched for evidence to exonerate his client.
Aggression
Definition: 1) feelings of anger and hatred that may result in threatening or violent behavior
2) a violent attack or threats by one person against another person or by one country against another country
Usage : The monkey showed lots of aggression toward its trainer.
Benediction
Definition: a Christian prayer of blessing
Usage: The minister pronounced the benediction.
Damnation
Definition: the state of being in hell; the act of sending someone to hell
Usage : She had a healthy fear of hell fire and eternal damnation.
Mishap
Definition: a small accident or piece of bad luck that does not have serious results
Usage : Who'd think such a small mishap could cause such a large dilemma.
Adhesive
Definition: that can stick to something
Usage: Cover the cut with an adhesive bandage.
Jaunty
Definition: showing that you are feeling confident and pleased with yourself
Usage : With jaunty steps they headed down the path to the picnic spot
Pagan
Definition: a person who holds religious beliefs that are not part of any of the world's main religions | used in the past by Christians to describe a person who did not believe in Christianity
Usage: The Pagans religion is mixed with the Catholic religion.
Adjutant
Definition: an army officer who does office work and helps other officers
Usage: The way Tom dashed to the side of the General at the slightest gesture it was clear Tom was an adjutant to the General.
Idiosyncrasies
Definition: a person's particular way of behaving, thinking, etc., especially when it is unusual
Usage: Her habit of using "like" in every sentence was just one of her idiosyncrasies.
Petrified
Definition: extremely frightened
Usage: When the ghost suddenly appeared he was petrified.
Canvas
Definition: 1) a situation seen as a whole
2) a strong, heavy, rough material used for making tents, sails, etc. and by artists for painting on
3) a piece of canvas used for painting on; a painting done on a piece of canvas, using oil paints
Usage: The museum has several canvases by Rubens.
Derogatory
Definition: showing a critical attitude toward someone
Usage: Fans made a steady stream of derogatory remarks about the players on the visiting team
Cognizant
Definition: knowledge or understanding of something
Usage: He is cognizant of his duties as a father.
