cabal : 1. A small, secret group of plotters or intriguers. 2. The plots of schemes of such a group.

rudiment : DEFINITION: (noun) The elementary stages of any subject (usually plural). SYNONYMS: ABC, ABCs, alphabet, first principle. USAGE: He mastered only the rudiments of geometry. Discuss

goulash : 1. A mixture of disparate elements; hodgepodge. 2. A stew of meat and vegetables, seasoned with paprika. 3. In the game of bridge, a round played with hands produced by a rearrangement of previously dealt cards.

skitter : DEFINITION: (verb) To move rapidly along a surface, usually with frequent light contacts or changes of direction; skip or glide quickly. SYNONYMS: scamper, scurry, scuttle. USAGE: The area was populated by countless tiny lizards that would skitter away when approached. Discuss

passé : DEFINITION: (adjective) No longer current or in fashion; out-of-date. SYNONYMS: old-fashioned, dated, outdated, obsolete, unfashionable, antiquated, outmoded, old hat, outworn, unhip, démodé. USAGE: Punk rock is considered by many to be passé now. Discuss

caveat : 1. A warning or caution. 2. In law, a formal notice filed by someone requesting a court to suspend a proceeding until the filer is heard.

tattered : DEFINITION: (adjective) Worn to shreds; or wearing torn or ragged clothing. SYNONYMS: tatterdemalion. USAGE: At last her rags became so tattered and torn that she was ashamed of appearing in the village any longer. Discuss

today’s extravasation : extravasation [fr. extra, outside + vas, vessel + -ation] /ex TRAV uh SAY shun/ 1) Pathology : forcing of the flow (of

gird : DEFINITION: (verb) Prepare oneself for a military confrontation. SYNONYMS: arm, build up, fortify. USAGE: They are girding themselves for battle against a new enemy. Discuss

ad hominem : Appealing to one’s prejudices, emotions, or other personal considerations rather than to intellect or reason.