Provenance n. The beginning of something’s existence; something’s origin. The place of origin or earliest known history of something. “An exquisite vase of Chinese provenance.”

Tepid adj. Showing little enthusiasm: “The president had a tepid response to the proposal.”

Efficacious adj. Successful in producing a desired or intended result; effective. “Efficacious treatment for the disease.”

Incorrigible adj. Not able to be corrected, improved, or reformed. “His bad habits were incorrigible.”

Malicious adj. Characterized by malice; intending or intended to do harm. “Malicious rumors.”

Bromide n. A commonplace remark or notion; a platitude. “Her speech contained the usual bromides about teamwork.” A tiresome or dull person; a bore.

Labyrinth n. A complicated irregular network of passages or paths in which it is difficult to find one’s way; a maze. “Exploring the labyrinth of waterways.” An intricate and confusing arrangement.

Abstruse adj. Difficult to understand; obscure. “An abstruse argument presented by the lawyers.”

Veracity n. Conformity to facts; accuracy. “What is the veracity of these allegations.” Habitual truthfulness. “Her veracity and character.”

Sardonic adj. Grimly mocking or cynical. “His sardonic smile.”