generic
A generalized, non-specific version of a recognizable thing; lacking distinction and personality
discreet
Keeping a low profile without drawing unwanted attention
conspicuous
The opposite of discreet: drawing attention either intentionally or not
eavesdrop
To listen in on a private conversation without being conspicuous
addictive
Characterized by being able to compel a person to do something over and over again even against their will
plausible
Possible but perhaps not very likely
villainous
Marked by a propensity to do evil or harm
tranquilizer
An agent capable of causing a sedative effect
contingency
Preparation for the likelihood of eventual events
finesse
Done with a subtle and delicate diplomacy
caustic
Acidic and scathing; used both literally and metaphorically
augmented
Made bigger or better; often one or the other, but usually intended to mean both
impromptu
Spontaneous; something done on the spur of the moment
anguish
A feeling of great suffering
notorious
Infamous; a disreputable kind of fame
crystalline
Clear, transparent and taking the form of crystals
catch-22
From the title of a novel by Joseph Heller, it is a term invented to describe a irreconcilable paradox. In Heller’s novel, the term is used to describe how a member of a bomber crew can be relieved from flying more missions: “Orr was crazy and could be grounded. All he had to do was ask; and as soon as he did, he would no longer be crazy and would have to fly more missions.”
dilapidated
Rundown, ramshackle and broken-down.
eccentric
A term used to describe behavior that would be called “crazy” if one didn’t like the person engaging in the behavior
incredulous
Describing something that is very difficult to believe
