Definition: A quality of being harsh or severe in tone, manner, or surface texture.

Example: The asperity in his voice made it clear that he was not pleased with the decision.

Definition: The quality of being confident and able to express one's opinions or needs clearly and firmly.

Example: Her assertiveness in meetings helped her team achieve their goals.

Definition: To make something less severe or intense, to calm someone down, or to satisfy a need or desire.

Example: She tried to assuage her friend's fears about the upcoming exam.

Definition: The act of making something less severe or intense, often referring to feelings of pain or discomfort.

Example: The doctor prescribed medication for the assuagement of her pain after surgery.

Definition: A person or thing that makes a feeling less intense or severe.

Example: The counselor acted as an assuager, helping the students cope with their anxiety.

Definition: Describing a state of being awake and active, often used to indicate that someone has gotten out of bed or is moving around.

Example: She was astir early in the morning, ready to start her day.

Definition: To cause someone to feel great surprise or wonder.

Example: The magician's tricks never fail to astonish the audience.

Definition: Feeling great surprise or wonder about something.

Example: She was astonished to see her old friend after so many years.

Definition: To be very surprised or shocked by something unexpected.

Example: She was astonished to see her old friend at the party.

Definition: Causing a feeling of great surprise or wonder.

Example: The magician's performance was astonishing and left the audience speechless.

Definition: To cause someone to feel great surprise or wonder.

Example: The magician's tricks were astonishing to the audience.

Definition: In a way that causes great surprise or wonder; to a very high degree.

Example: The magician performed astonishingly, leaving the audience in awe.