Vocabulary in Context - 4 (Reading)

A paragon is a model or pattern of excellence or perfection.

 A renegade is one who deserts a party or cause.

Aesthete is a person highly sensitive to art and beauty.

Inviolate means that cannot be violated.

Deride means to ridicule, mock, or make fun of someone or something, often in a contemptuous manner. It directly matches the given phrase. Depreciate means to diminish in value or show disapproval (often of an asset). Derogate means to detract from or deviate from (a rule or standard). Denounce means to publicly declare to be wrong or evil - stronger than ridicule.

To undermine a government covertly through various means is refered to as destabilize.

Expeditious means acting or done quickly, efficiently, and promptly - exactly matching 'speedy and efficient'. It describes actions performed with minimal delay. Excoriate means to criticize severely or strip the skin. Extenuating means providing a partial excuse or making less severe. Extol means to praise highly.

 Ethos is the combined beliefs, opinions, morals and attitudes of a community.

Effervescent means bubbly, lively, enthusiastic, and vivacious - perfectly matching 'full of enthusiasm and lively spirits'. It literally refers to giving off bubbles (like carbonated drinks) and figuratively describes high energy and enthusiasm. Effluent is liquid waste or sewage. Effulgent means shining brightly or radiant. Effete means worn out, weak, or decadent.

Fawn means to seek favor or attention through flattery, submissiveness, or servile behavior - exactly matching 'to be servile or cringing'. It describes someone acting obsequiously to gain advantage. Feign means to pretend or simulate. Flick is a light, sharp movement. Femur is the thigh bone - anatomical term.

Expunge means to erase, remove, or obliterate completely - exactly matching 'erase or remove completely'. It's often used for deleting records from official documents. Expurgated means to remove objectionable material (usually from texts). Execrated means to detest or loathe. Excavated means to dig out or unearth (archaeology).

Glut means an excessive supply, oversupply, or surplus - exactly matching the given phrase. It describes having more of something than is needed or can be used. Glue is an adhesive. Gratis means free or without cost. Glib means fluent but insincere or superficial.

It means lacking grace, esp. social grace; awkward;
 

A 'howler' is literally a glaring mistake or blunder that is so bad it's ridiculous or laughable - like an error that makes you want to howl. Humdrum means dull/boring, homily is a moralizing sermon, and heifer is a young cow.

Cul-de-sac is French for 'bottom of the bag' and refers to a street with only one inlet/outlet - a dead end. The other options are unrelated: creche is a daycare, reformatory is a detention center, infirmary is a clinic.