1. alcove – a small space set back in a wall or room.

Ex. We moved our table into the alcove of our kitchen.

2. commerce – the buying and selling of products to make money.

Ex. All commerce involves trading goods or services for money.

3. domestic – being related to family or life at home.

Ex. The sisters’ domestic chores include cleaning up after meals.

4. exotic – a person, place, or object that is unusual and interesting.

Ex. In my city, owning an exotic pet, such as a dangerous snake, is illegal.

5. fluent – speaking or writing a language well.

Ex. Having lived in Spain, she is fluent in English and Spanish.

6. stifling – suffocating or extremely close.

Ex. Splashing in a wading pool is one way to cool off in this stifling heat.

7. upheaval – major or sudden change that often creates problems or distress.

Ex. An energetic new puppy can cause some upheaval in a home.

8. utmost – of the greatest or highest degree or amount.    Ex. A good doctor treats patients with the utmost care.