Prithee is an old-fashioned contraction of "I pray thee," used to politely request something. First used in the 1500s, it carries a gentle, almost lyrical tone. Whether reading Shakespeare or crafting whimsical dialogue, prithee adds a touch of historic charm.
Prithee, tell me your name.
Leviathan is a word with literary flair that can refer broadly to something very large and powerful, or more narrowly to a large sea animal, or a totalitarian state having a vast bureaucracy.
// Towering leviathans of the forest, giant sequoias often reach heights of more than 200 feet.
To grift is to use dishonest tricks to illegally take money or property.
// The email scammer shamelessly grifted thousands of dollars from unwitting victims.
Something or someone described as enigmatic is mysterious and difficult to understand.
// The band’s lead singer has always been an enigmatic figure, refusing to use social media or even sit for interviews.
Bravado refers to confident or brave talk or behavior that is intended to impress other people.
// She tells the stories of her youthful exploits with enough bravado to invite suspicion that they're embellished a bit.
// The crew of climbers scaled the mountain with youthful bravado.
Sensibility is a formal word often used in its plural form to refer someone’s personal or cultural approach to what they encounter, as in “the speaker made sure to tailor his speech to the sensibilities of his audience.” Sensibility can also be used for the kind of feelings a person tends to have in general, as well as for the ability to feel and understand emotions.
// Many older cartoons feel out of line with modern sensibilities.
1. the condition of having good fortune
2. a state of growth with rising profits and full employment
Something described as frowsy has a messy or dirty appearance.
// The lamp, discovered in a neglected corner of a frowsy antique store, turned out to be quite valuable.
Alchemy refers to a power or process that changes or transforms something in a mysterious or impressive way.
// They practiced their alchemy in the kitchen, turning a pile of vegetables and legumes into an extravagant meal.
// The shopkeepers hoped for some sort of economic alchemy that would improve business.
To cajole someone is to use flattery or gentle urging to persuade them to do something or to give you something. Cajole can also mean “to deceive with soothing words or false promises.” It is often used with the word into.
// She cajoled her partner into going to the party with her.
// They hoped to cajole him into cooperating with local officials.