| a dictionary of words and phrases on the verge of extinction — updated daily — for the word obsessed! |  |
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jolie laide zhaw-lee led noun a woman who is attractive in an unconventional way 1921Women in the Life of BalzacShe was a fine equestrienne, a most beautiful dancer, apparently naturally graceful, and bore the sobriquet of la jolie laide.1981The Xanadu TalismanShe smiled, and again for a moment was transformed from a jolie-laide to a beautiful woman.Labels: Juanita Helm Floyd, Peter O'Donnell
asperity a-SPAER-uh-tee noun ill temper; a bump; harshness; severity 1815Emma'Not Harriet's equal!' exclaimed Mr. Knightley loudly and warmly; and with calmer asperity, added, a few moments afterwards,'No, he is not her equal indeed, for he is as much her superior in sense as in situation.'1890The Reign of TiberiusFor these his assumed manners and foreign habit, Tiberius blamed him in a gentle style, but censured him with great asperity for violating an establishment of Augustus, and entering Alexandria without consent of the Prince.1915Red FleeceWhat do you want? she asked, though not quite with the original asperity.1976Last Day in LimboHe lifted his head and said with asperity…Labels: Cornelius Tacitus, Jane Austen, Peter O'Donnell, Will Levington Comfort
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