any external prop or support built to steady a structure by opposing its outward thrusts, especially a projecting support built into or against the outside of a masonry wall

an environmental cue, as the length of daylight or the degree of temperature, that helps to regulate the cycles of an organism's biological clock

one's range of knowledge or sight

making or having a harsh sound; grating; creaking

selecting or choosing from various sources

of, pertaining to, engaged in, or characterized by philanthropy; benevolent

a mental condition characterized by great depression of spirits and gloomy forebodings

sleepy; drowsy

three panels or compartments side by side with pictures or carvings

to rise above or go beyond; overpass; exceed

a collection of 24 or sometimes 25 sheets of paper of the same size and quality: one twentieth of a ream

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

unwilling to spend money or use resources

sleight of hand; trickery

gloomily dark; shadowy; dimly lighted

having or showing equanimity; even-tempered