abdicate

dearth

(n.) a lack, scarcity, inadequate supply; a famine

adherent

a follower, supporter; attached, sticking to

nuance

a subtle or slight variation (as in color, meaning, quality), delicate gradation or shade of difference

acerbic

bitter, sharp in taste or temper

placid

calm, peaceful

malleable

capable of being shaped

daub

cover (a surface) by smearing (a substance) over it

abdicate

formally give up a position or responsibility; commonly refers to royalty renouncing the throne

needle

goad or provoke,as by constant criticism

ambiguous

having more than one meaning; unclear, uncertain

malapropism

ludicrous misuse of a word

odious

repulsive

palpitate

to beat rapidly; to shake or flutter

gambol

to dance or skip around playfully

gratuitous

uncalled for; unwarranted