Eccentric [ec·cen·tric] adj. 1. Departing from a recognized, conventional, or established norm or pattern. 2. n. One that deviates markedly from an established norm, especially a person of odd or unconventional behavior. “His eccentricities now extend to never leaving his home.”

Impugn [im·pugn] tr.v. To attack as false or questionable; challenge in argument: “To impugn a political opponent’s record.”

Erudite [er·u·dite] adj. Deep, extensive learning. “He has a reputation as an eruditeintellectual with a deep understanding of the issues.”

Nocturnal [noc·tur·nal] adj. Occurring or coming out at night: “A nocturnal lifestyle.”

Aesthetic(s) [aes·thet·ic] adj. 1. Of or concerning the appreciation of beauty or good taste. 2. Characterized by a heightened sensitivity to beauty. “The aesthetic design of the building is amazing!”

Enervate [en·er·vate] tr.v. 1. To weaken or destroy the strength or vitality. 2. Lacking physical, mental, or moral vigor. “Prolonged exposure to the sun and dehydration enervated the desert racing team.”

Tempestuous [tem·pes·tu·ous] adj. Tumultuous; stormy: “A tempestuous relationship.”

Attrition [at·tri·tion] n. 1. A gradual, natural reduction in membership or personnel, as through retirement, resignation, or death. 2. A gradual diminution in number or strength. “The company’s attrition rate was quite high.”

Axiom [ax·i·om] n. 1. An established rule, principle, or law. 2. A self-evident or universally recognized truth; a maxim. 3. A self-evident principle or one that is accepted as true without proof as the basis for argument.

Prognosticate [prog·nos·ti·cate] tr.v. To predict according to present indications or signs; foretell. “The armchair quarterback tried to prognosticate the play from his recliner.”