(pronounced KOH-tuh-ree) In slang terms, a coterie is what we more crudely refer to as a “click”: a close (often select or fashionable) crowd of people having with a mutual objective or interest. In a junior high context, that

(pronounced koo-deh-GRAHS) Also seen spelled the French way: coup de grâce. Literally: a stroke of mercy. In that sense, it’s a little morbid. Commonly seen used in relation to the battlefield, it means the final shot or blow delivered

(pronounced KRIP-tik) It’s easy to remember this adjective. Just remember back on all of those “Tales From The Crypt” Example: In their weekly project meeting, Maddie was incredibly frustrated by the developer’s cryptic comments regarding the status of the

(pronounced kuhl) A verb meaning to carefully choose from or select out of a group, usually in the effort to reduce the size of or improve the quality of the collection. Example: Furniture manufacturers usually give fair warning to their

(pronounced exactly as it is spelled) To remember what this word means, all you must do is think of Example: Virginia could only think of one reason that her boss had hired such a daft office manager to handle

(pronounced dahrk hors) In the 1800s this term came about to describe a horse that unexpectedly emerges out of a pack of better known contenders to win – or at least place – in a race. In modern times,

(pronounced dah-ree-GUR) A French term meaning proper or recommended by custom or fashion. Example: We assured our client that a Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired stained glass window would be de rigueur in his Arts & Crafts-style home.