Writers of crime fiction often use the argot or criminals and detectives to create a realistic atmosphere.
Ascetic
one who practices self-denial
Muslim ascetics consider the internal battle against human passions a greater jihad than the struggle against infidels.
Asperity
severity; harshness; irritability
Aspersion
slander; false rumor
The Republic of SIngapore is a young democracy, and its leaders often respond strongly to journalists and others who cast aspersions on their integrity.
Assiduous
diligent; hard-working
The assiduous people of Hong Kong live in a territory with one of the highest per capital incomes in the world.