to drive off in various directions; disperse; dissipate

to show excessive admiration or devotion to; flatter or admire servilely

having or showing acute mental discernment and keen practical sense; shrewd

a mania characterized by an uncontrollable impulse to dance, especially as prevalent in southern Italy from the 15th to the 17th century, popularly attributed to the bite of the tarantula

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

characterized by long words

knitting; to knit with a reverse stitch

to express earnest disapproval of

a mark (− or ÷) used in ancient manuscripts to point out spurious, corrupt, doubtful, or superfluous words or passages

wild; frenzied

to understand thoroughly and intuitively

to cry in a thin voice; whine; whimper

something small, delicate, and exquisitely wrought

the act of coruscating; a sudden gleam or flash of light; a striking display of brilliance or wit

alluring by a show of flashy or vulgar attractions; tawdry

dependent on circumstances beyond one's control; uncertain; insecure