riposte
[ri-pohst]
noun
A quick, sharp return in speech or action; counterstroke: a brilliant riposte to an insult…
torpor
torpor [TAWR-per]
noun
Lacking in vitality or interest.
The first time we tried Special K we got locked into “K-holes,” and sat there in a state of torpor for twelve long minutes.
exalt
[ig-ZOLT]
verb
To praise, glorify, or honor.
During the holidays my family and I pretend to exalt a few of the Greek gods, just to piss off the Christian assholes next door.
popinjay
[POP-in-jay]
noun
A vain and talkative person.
I don’t care for Gossip Girl. Too many popinjays–all walkin’ around discussing total bullshit.
busker
[BUS-kur]
noun
A person who entertains (as by playing music) in public places.
I miss the foul-smelling buskers that used to entertain me while waiting for the L train.
hermitage
/ˈhɜrmɪtɪdʒ/
noun
1 the habitation of a hermit. 2 a secluded residence…
flummox
[FLUM-uhks]
trans
verb. To confuse; to perplex.
I always leave my phone on during flights…