F-E-V-E-R - Answers1. A character flaw. Ah, forgive the word-quiz addicts—onomotomania is an all-too-human foible. (It comes from the Old French “feble,” weak, and also applies to the weakest part of a sword’s blade.)2. An aper, a copycat. Emulation, it’s been said, is the sincerest form of flattery—but quoting clichés may be the flattest form of sincerity. 3. Night and day are about the same length (from equi/equal, and nox/night). The learned astronomer said that the vernal equinox occurs when the sun crosses the plane of the earth’s equator (the autumnal equinox happens in September). 4. Wood shavings (or shredded paper, foam, etc.), for packing. Excelsior also means “ever upward,” as in New York State’s motto. And in printing, it’s a three-point type. 5. Round in girth (also full-toned). The sturdy tenor had a rotund voice to match his rotund figure. |
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