Definition: A shape with five sides and five angles, or a specific building in Washington, D.C. that houses the U.S. Department of Defense.

Example: The Pentagon is an important symbol of the U.S. military.

Definition: A person who is part of a group of five leaders or rulers.

Example: The pentarchs met to discuss the future of their territories.

Definition: A system of governance where five leaders or governments share power and rule together.

Example: The pentarchy was established to ensure that no single ruler could dominate the others.

Definition: A system where people work for others to pay off debts, often in harsh conditions, or the state of being in such a situation.

Example: Many workers were trapped in peonage, unable to escape their debts.

Definition: A system or condition where individuals are bound to work for others, often in low-paying jobs, typically as a form of debt servitude.

Example: The workers were trapped in a cycle of peonism, unable to escape their low wages and heavy debts.

Definition: Describing a command or order that must be followed without question; often forceful and not open to disagreement.

Example: The manager gave a peremptory order that everyone must attend the meeting.

Definition: A policy of reforming the economy and government in the Soviet Union that started in the 1980s, aimed at improving efficiency and openness.

Example: Perestroika was a significant change in the Soviet Union that aimed to modernize its economy.

Definition: A deliberate act of betrayal or treachery, often involving a breach of trust.

Example: His perfidy shocked everyone who thought he was a loyal friend.

Definition: A situation or thing that puts someone or something at risk of harm or loss.

Example: The hikers were in peril when the storm hit suddenly.

Definition: To put someone or something in a situation where they might be harmed or face danger.

Example: The storm could peril the small fishing boats at sea.

Definition: The outer edge or boundary of an area or object, often referring to a region that is not central or main.

Example: The park is located on the periphery of the city, away from the busy downtown area.