hypocorism - A name of endearment; a pet name. Synonyms: pet name Usage: "Billy" is a hypocorism for "William.

" potentate - One who has the power and position to rule over others. Synonyms: dictator, ruler Usage: She was a potentate in her home, all her relatives being too cowed to protest her decisions. cymatium - A molding for a cornice; in profile it is partly concave and partly convex. Synonyms: cyma Usage: When the crown molding of an entablature is of the cyma form, it is called a cymatium. hegemony - The predominant influence, as of a state, region, or group, over another or others. Synonyms: domination Usage: Many great works of art were created during the hegemony of Athens in Greece. diffidence - The quality or state of being diffident; timidity or shyness. Synonyms: self-distrust, self-doubt Usage: The youth sat down as directed, but reluctantly and with diffidence.