When capitalized, Noel refers to Christmas or the Christmas season. Uncapitalized, noel refers to a Christmas carol.
// We were greeted at the door by a group of carolers singing noels.
// Every year we send our family Christmas cards with our photo enclosed wishing everyone a joyous Noel.
Harking back can be about turning back to an earlier topic or circumstance, as in "a storyteller harking back to his youth," or it can be about going back to something as an origin or source, as in "a style that harks back to the turn of the previous century."
// The dinner conversation harked back to the lunch debate over what counts as a traditional holiday meal.
Hibernaculum (plural hibernacula) refers to a shelter occupied during the winter by a dormant animal, such as an insect, snake, bat, or marmot.
// Local scientists are studying the longevity of bats who use bridges and other aboveground hibernacula versus that of bats who roost all winter in subterranean caves.
Decorous is a formal adjective used to describe an attitude or behavior characterized by propriety and good taste.
// The ceremony was conducted with a decorous solemnity.
Veracity is a formal word that can refer to truth or accuracy, or to the quality of being truthful or honest.
// The jury seemed not to doubt the veracity of the witness.
Something described as jaunty is lively in manner or appearance. Jaunty can also describe something, such as an article of clothing, that suggests a lively and confident quality.
// The server whistled a jaunty tune as she wiped the tables and set out fresh flowers in preparation for the day’s diners.
To espouse an ideology, belief, etc., is to take it up and support it as a cause. Espouse is usually encountered in formal speech and writing.
// The article explores some of the lesser-known viewpoints espoused by the charismatic leader.
Conversant, usually used in the phrase "conversant with," describes someone who has knowledge of or experience with something.
// The ideal candidate for the sommelier position will have expert knowledge of the various wines served in the restaurant and be conversant with the rich world of viniculture.
Clishmaclaver captures the buzz of conversations that meander — those little tales, whispers, and asides. Its Scottish roots add to the word's charm, capturing the lighthearted side of talkative conversation. Whether sharing stories or secrets, clishmaclaver keeps the exchange playful.
Their clishmaclaver about the neighbors filled the quiet afternoon.
To alleviate something is to make it less painful, difficult, or severe. Alleviate can also mean "to partially remove or correct."
// There's no cure for the common cold, but there are various treatments that may alleviate some of the symptoms.
// The new tunnel should alleviate traffic congestion on the bridge.