Ramshackle describes things that are in a very bad condition and need to be repaired, or that are carelessly or loosely constructed.

// Toward the back of the property stood a ramshackle old shed.

// The book had a ramshackle plot that was confusing and unbelievable.

To stipulate is to demand or require something as part of an agreement.

// The rules stipulate that players must wear uniforms.

A behemoth is something of monstrous size, power, or appearance. Behemoth (usually capitalized) is also the name of a mighty animal described in the biblical book of Job.

// The town will be voting on whether or not to let the retail behemoth build a store on the proposed site.

Winsome describes people and things that are cheerful, pleasant, and appealing.

// Though a relative newcomer to acting, Maya won the casting directors over with her winsome charm, which was perfect for the role of the plucky young superhero.

// Our winsome guide put us at ease immediately.

To adjudicate a dispute between two parties is to make an official decision about which party is right; to adjudicate a case or claim is to settle it judicially. Adjudicate is also used to mean “to act as judge.”

// The case will be adjudicated in the state courts.

// The property title cannot be transferred until a case concerning the affected rights of way is adjudicated.

Contentious describes something that is likely to cause people to argue or disagree or that involves a lot of arguing. When used of a person, contentious describes someone likely or willing to argue.

// I think it’s wise to avoid such a contentious topic at a dinner party.

// After a contentious debate, members of the committee finally voted to approve the funding.

// The dispute involves one of the region’s most contentious leaders.

A tapestry is a heavy textile characterized by complicated pictorial designs and used for hangings, curtains, and upholstery. In figurative use, tapestry may refer to anything made up of different things, people, colors, etc.

// The walls were adorned with handwoven tapestries.

// They enjoyed the rich tapestry of life in the city.

Palimpsest in its original use refers to writing material (such as a parchment manuscript) used one or more times after earlier writing has been erased; the underlying text is said to be “in palimpsest.” Palimpsest in extended use refers to something that has usually diverse layers or aspects apparent beneath the surface.

// Scholars believe the motive for making palimpsests was often economic—reusing parchment was cheaper than preparing a new skin.

// The ancient city is an architectural palimpsest.

To dissociate is to separate oneself from association or union with someone or something; in contexts relating to psychology, it has to do specifically with mentally detaching from one's physical or emotional experiences. In chemistry, dissociate means "to separate a chemical compound into its constituent parts especially through the application of heat or a solvent."

// The director has tried to dissociate herself from her earlier films.