a person who is skilled in relating stories and anecdotes interestingly.

a finely granular variety of gypsum, often white and translucent, used for ornamental objects or work, such as lamp bases, figurines, etc.

to show excessive admiration or devotion to; flatter or admire servilely

to issue denunciations or the like

impressively or overwhelmingly large, luxurious, etc.

a bitter, sharply abusive denunciation, attack, or criticism

a dull-witted, stupid, or ignorant person; dolt

to rise above or go beyond; overpass; exceed

spacious and convenient; roomy

a flat, dull, or trite remark, especially one uttered as if it were fresh or profound

encouraging a person to learn, discover, understand, or solve problems on his or her own, as by experimenting, evaluating possible answers or solutions, or by trial and error

speaking or expressed in a concise or terse style; using brevity of speech

very loud or powerful in sound

overflowing with fervor, enthusiasm, or excitement; high-spirited

obviously planned or forced; artificial; strained

to work, write, or study laboriously, especially at night and by lamplight