abase

to lower in position or estimation

degrade; humiliate

cabal

a clique (often secret) that seeks power usually through intrigue for some private purpose

heartrending

causing anguish or deep distress

arousing deep sympathy

cacophony

harsh or discordant sound

repudiate

to refuse to accept

to reject as unauthorized or as having no binding force (dealing with a contract)

abbess

superior of a nunnery

equivalent of an abbot

admonish

suggests earnest or friendly warning and counsel

"I was admonished by my parents to control expenses."

judicious

having, exercising, or characterized by sound judgment

(similar to being wise)

aberration

deviation from a right, customary, or prescribed course

hale

free from defect, disease, or infirmity

retaining exceptional health and vigor

"a hale and hearty old man"

facetious

amusing

joking or jesting often inappropriately

galvanize

to stimulate or excite as if by an electric shock

"an issue that would galvanize public opinion"

baleful

foreboding or threatening evil

fallible

likely to fail or make errors

forswear

to renounce under oath usually in a betraying manner

contention

a point advanced or maintained in a debate or argument

a dispute where there is strong disagreement