carte blanche
full authority, freedom to do as one feels is right, a "white paper
coup d' etat
sudden overthrow of government, usually by force
de rigueur
required absolutely by custom, etiquette, or fashion
detente
easing of tensions between countries
double entendre
expression or word that can be interpreted with two meanings, one
usually with risque meaning
en masse
as a group all together
faux pas
a slipup in manners, actions, or speech; literally a "false step
cliches
trite expression that has become meaningless from overuse
debacle
complete disaster, sudden collapse
facade
the outer side of a building, the side facing the street; the general
outward apperance
gauche
awkward, lacking in grace
malaise
vague bodily discomfort; disturbed, disoriented condition
hors d' oeuvres
an appetizer served before the main meal and often before diners have
been seated at the table