The Outsiders: Chapters 1-3

ligament

A band of fibrous tissue that connects bones to bones. It supports and strengthens a joint.

aloofness

a disposition to be distant and unsympathetic in manner

frustration

a feeling of annoyance at being hindered or criticized

elite

a group or class of persons enjoying superior status

grudge

a resentment strong enough to justify retaliation

rumble

a street fight between rival groups

wisp

a thin tuft, piece, or amount of something

cowlick

a tuft of hair that grows in a direction different from that of the rest of the hair.

stricken

affected by something overwhelming

cur

an inferior dog or one of mixed breed

plead

appeal or request earnestly

bicker

argue over petty things

appeal

be attractive to

gallant

being attentive and courteous like an ideal knight

incidentally

by the way

reckon

expect, believe, or suppose

ornery

having a difficult and contrary disposition

sage

having wisdom that comes with age and experience

sophisticated

having worldly knowledge and refinement

unfathomable

impossible to come to understand

sassy

improperly forward or bold

nonchalantly

in a composed and unconcerned manner

gingerly

in a manner marked by extreme care or delicacy

vaguely

in an unclear way

size up

look at closely in order to form an opinion about

glare

look at with a fixed gaze

wince

make a face indicating disgust or dislike

reckless

marked by defiant disregard for danger or consequences

cunning

marked by skill in deception

incredulous

not disposed or willing to believe; unbelieving

bleak

offering little or not hope

concession

refreshments purchased at a small stand in a larger business

lope

run easily

rivalry

the act of competing as for profit or a prize

resign

to accept as inevitable; to give up