[n.]1) a vessel used for melting metal, and therefore able to
withstand high temperatures, 2) a severe or serious test
Paradox
[n.] a seemingly contradictory statement that may nonetheless be
true; an ironic thing, or statement.
Witch-hunt
[n.] 1) in Puritan times, a search for supposed witches within
the community; 2) today, a political campaign launched on the pretext of
investigating activities subversive to the state.
Formidable
[adj.] awesome, strong, imposing, impressive, possibly inspiring
fear or dread