​sangfroid /säNGˈfrwä/: n.) composure or coolness, especially in trying circumstances

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synonyms: poise, self-assurance​

antonyms: excitability, hysteria, flappability

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Even when they forget their lines, experienced actors can usually perform with sangfroid. ​

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​seditious: adj.) resistant to lawful authority; having the purpose of overthrowing an established government; sedition: n.) conduct or speech inciting people to rebel against the authority of a state or monarch

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synonyms: mutinous, rebellious, subversive

antonyms: supportive, faithful, allegiant

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Dictators usually begin their reigns by searching out and silencing seditious opinion. ​

​tenuous: adj.) thin, slender, not dense; lacking clarity or sharpness; of slight importance; lacking a sound basis, poorly supported

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synonyms: flimsy, insubstantial, vague, hazy

antonyms: strong, solid, substantial, valid

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My grasp of trigonometry was tenuous until I attended the remedial study sessions. ​

​vitriolic: adj.) bitter, sarcastic; highly caustic or biting

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synonyms: withering, mordant

​antonyms: bland, saccharine, sugary

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Though hurt by his vitriolic language, I had to admit that some of his points were valid. ​

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​wheedle: v.) to use coaxing or flattery to gain some desired end

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synonyms: soft-soap, sweet-talk

antonyms: coerce, intimidate, strong-arm

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The spy used charm and flattery in order to wheedle the information from the diplomat. ​