a person given to voluble, empty talk; nonsense; blather

personification, as of inanimate things

to render absurdly or wholly futile or ineffectual, especially by degrading or frustrating means

to clear, as from an accusation, imputation, suspicion, or the like

an irrational dislike; loathing

a finely granular variety of gypsum, often white and translucent, used for ornamental objects or work, such as lamp bases, figurines, etc.

to work, write, or study laboriously, especially at night and by lamplight

anything that transforms, purifies, or refines

an establishment or resumption of harmonious relations

the greedy pursuit of riches

to give notice to; inform; advise (often followed by 'of')

the lowest point; point of greatest adversity or despair

smallness of quantity; scarcity; scantiness

dark, gloomy, and cheerless

allowing the possibility of several different meanings, as a word or phrase, especially with intent to deceive or misguide; susceptible of double interpretation; deliberately ambiguous

necessary for (someone) as a duty or responsibility