Islamic State Gains 'Symbolic Victories'

inspire – adj. to make (someone) want to do something

chatter – n. casual talk that is usually not important or interesting; talk among groups or people planning an event

core – n. the central part of something

outsized – adj. very large in size or influence

orient – v. to change or create (something, such as a book or a film) so that it appeals to a particular group of people or is suitable for a particular group of people; to direct (someone) toward a goal

devolve – v. to gradually go from an advanced state to a less advanced state (chiefly US)

covert – adj. made, shown, or done in a way that is not easily seen or noticed; secret or hidden