noun: One that seems unattractive or unpromising at first but has great potential and later turns out to be quite attractive or successful.
ugly duckling
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substandard
Definition: (adjective) Falling short of some prescribed norm. Synonyms: deficient, inferior. Usage: Substandard housing endangers the welfare of …
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prefatory
Definition: (adjective) Serving as an introduction or preface. Synonyms: introductory. Usage: Without wasting a moment in prefatory words …
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interpose
verb tr., intr.: 1. To place in between. 2. To intrude or to interrupt. noun: 1. The act …
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contentious
Definition: (adjective) Inclined or showing an inclination to dispute or disagree, even to engage in lawsuits. Synonyms: combative, …
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nanny state
noun: A government regarded as having an excessive interest in the welfare of its citizens, as evidenced by …
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accustom
Definition: (verb) Make psychologically or physically used (to something). Synonyms: habituate. Usage: Endeavor, then, to accustom yourself to …
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pitiless
Definition: (adjective) Without mercy or pity. Synonyms: remorseless, ruthless. Usage: He looked into the pitiless eyes of his …
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verbigerate
verb intr.: To obsessively repeat meaningless words and phrases.
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benignity
Definition: (noun) The quality of being kind and gentle. Synonyms: graciousness. Usage: As he opened his mouth to …
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clepsydra
Definition: (noun) Clock that measures time by the escape of water. Synonyms: water clock, water glass. Usage: The …