odious(oh·di·u ̆s) adj.contemptible, hateful, detestable. This is an odious pol-
icy that will only damage the environment more.
penchant(pen·cha ̆nt) n.a strong inclination or liking. I have a real penchant
for science fiction writing and spend hours reading my favorite authors every night.
pillage(pil·ij) v.to forcibly rob of goods, especially in time of war; to plun-
der. The barbarians pillaged the village before destroying it with fire.
placid(plas·id) adj.calm and peaceful; free from disturbance or tumult.
Lake Placid is as calm and peaceful as its name suggests.
rancor(ran·ko ̆r) n.a bitter feeling of ill will; long-lasting resentment. Greg
is full of rancor towards his brother, and this causes tension at family gatherings.
reprisal(ri·pr ̄·za ̆l) n.1. an act of retaliation for an injury with the intent
of inflicting at least as much harm in return. 2. the practice of using polit-
ical or military force without actually resorting to war. The president prom-
ised a swift reprisal for the attack.
xenophobia(zen·o ̆·foh·bi·a ̆) n.a strong dislike, distrust, or fear of for-
eigners. Many atrocities have been committed because of xenophobia.