Chronicle of a Death Foretold Vocab
houri
1 : one of the beautiful maidens that in Muslim belief live with the blessed in paradise 2 : a voluptuously beautiful young woman
hepatitis
1 inflammation of the liver 2 : a disease or condition (as hepatitis A or hepatitis B) marked by inflammation of the liver
babylonic
1. Pertaining to Babylon, or made there; as, Babylonic garments, carpets, or hangings. 2. Tumultuous; disorderly.
dispersion
2 : the act or process of dispersing : the state of being dispersed 3 : the scattering of the values of a frequency distribution from an average 4 : the separation of light into colors by refraction or diffraction with formation of a spectrum; also : the separation of radiation into components in accordance with some varying characteristic (as energy) 5 a : a dispersed substance b : a system consisting of a dispersed substance and the medium in which it is dispersed : colloid 2b
trepanation
: to use a trephine on (the skull) 2 : to remove a disk or cylindrical core (as from metal for testing)
blennorrhea
Blennorrhea is mucous discharge, especially from the urethra or vagina (that is, mucus vaginal discharge). Blennorrhagia is an excess of such discharge, often specifically referring to that seen in gonorrhea.
merengue
Caribbean style of dance music typically in duple and triple time, chiefly associated with Dominica and Haiti. • a style of dancing associated with such music, with alternating long and short stiff-legged steps.
plantains
a banana containing high levels of starch and little sugar, harvested green and widely used as a cooked vegetable in the tropics. the plant that bears the plantain fruit.
panopticon
a circular prison with cells arranged around a central well, from which prisoners could at all times be observed.
dieretics
a diuretic drug (cause people to lose water including inhibiting kidney's ability to reabsorb sodium)
proprietress
a female proprietor (the owner of a business, or a holder of property)
greenhorn
a person who lacks experience and knowledge
uplander
a region of high land especially far from the sea
quicklime
a white caustic alkaline substance consisting of calcium oxide, obtained by heating limestone.
absinthe
absinthe |ˈabˌsinTH|(also absinth ) noun 1 the shrub wormwood. • an essence made from this. 2 a potent green aniseed-flavored liqueur that turns milky when water is added. Prepared from wormwood, it is now largely banned because of its toxicity.
absolved
absolve |əbˈzälv, -ˈsälv| verb [ with obj. ] set or declare (someone) free from blame, guilt, or responsibility: the pardon absolved them of any crimes. • Christian Theology give absolution for (a sin).
acolyte
acolyte |ˈakəˌlīt| noun a person assisting the celebrant in a religious service or procession. • an assistant or follower
stolidity
adjective (of a person) calm, dependable, and showing little emotion or animation.
pontifical
adjective 1 (in the Roman Catholic Church) of or relating to the pope: a pontifical commission. 2 characterized by a pompous and superior air of infallibility: such explanations were greeted with pontifical disdain.
utilitarian
adjective 1 designed to be useful or practical rather than attractive. 2 Philosophy of, relating to, or adhering to the doctrine of utilitarianism: a utilitarian theorist.
resolute
adjective admirably purposeful, determined, and unwavering: she was resolute and unswerving.
misbegotten
adjective badly conceived, designed, or planned: a misbegotten journey to Indianapolis. • contemptible (used as a term of abuse): you misbegotten hound! • archaic (of a child) illegitimate.
scant
adjective barely sufficient or adequate: companies with scant regard for the safety of future generations. • [ attrib. ] barely amounting to a specified number or quantity: she weighed a scant two pounds.
illusory
adjective based on illusion; not real: she knew the safety of her room was illusory.
perplexed
adjective completely baffled; very puzzled: she gave him a perplexed look.
indignant
adjective feeling or showing anger or annoyance at what is perceived as unfair treatment: he was indignant at being the object of suspicion.
ominous
adjective giving the impression that something bad or unpleasant is going to happen; threatening; inauspicious: there were ominous dark clouds gathering overhead.
pernicious
adjective having a harmful effect, esp. in a gradual or subtle way: the pernicious influences of the mass media.
resigned
adjective having accepted something unpleasant that one cannot do anything about: my response is a resigned shrug of the shoulders.
funereal
adjective having the mournful, somber character appropriate to a funeral: Lincoln's funereal gloominess was legendary.
rudimentary
adjective involving or limited to basic principles: he received a rudimentary education. • of or relating to an immature, undeveloped, or basic form: a rudimentary stage of evolution.
ephemeral
adjective lasting for a very short time: fashions are ephemeral. • (chiefly of plants) having a very short life cycle.
prostrated
adjective lying stretched out on the ground with one's face downward. • [ predic. ] completely overcome or helpless, esp. with illness, distress, or exhaustion: his wife was prostrate with shock.
clamorous
adjective making a loud and confused noise: a jostling, clamorous mob. • expressing or characterized by vehement protests or demands: the clamorous radical wing of the party.
untrammeled
adjective not deprived of freedom of action or expression; not restricted or hampered: a mind untrammeled by convention.
impassively
adjective not feeling or showing emotion: impassive passersby ignore the performers.
improbable
adjective not likely to be true or to happen: this account of events was seen by the jury as most improbable. • unexpected and apparently inauthentic: the characters have improbable names.
reticence
adjective not revealing one's thoughts or feelings readily: she was extremely reticent about her personal affairs.
gastric
adjective of the stomach
penitential
adjective relating to or expressing penitence or penance: penitential tears.
insolent
adjective showing a rude and arrogant lack of respect: she hated the insolent tone of his voice.
feigned
adjective simulated or pretended; insincere: her eyes widened with feigned shock.
transverse
adjective situated or extending across something: a transverse beam supports the dashboard.
demented
adjective suffering from dementia. • informal driven to behave irrationally due to anger, distress, or excitement: a demented, dangerous, and sadistic Mafioso.
superfluous
adjective unnecessary, esp. through being more than enough: the purchaser should avoid asking for superfluous information.
illustrious
adjective well known, respected, and admired for past achievements: his illustrious predecessor | an illustrious career.
destitute
adjective without the basic necessities of life: the charity cares for destitute children. • [ predic. ] (destitute of) not having: towns destitute of commerce.
haughty
adjective ( haughtier, haughtiest ) arrogantly superior and disdainful: a look of haughty disdain | a haughty aristocrat.
stealthily
adjective ( stealthier , stealthiest ) behaving, done, or made in a cautious and surreptitious manner, so as not to be seen or heard: stealthy footsteps.
accustomed
adjective [ attrib. ] customary or usual: his accustomed route.
encephalic
adjectiveAnatomy relating to, affecting, or situated in the brain
apostolic
adjectiveChristian Church of or relating to the Apostles: apostolic writings | a simple apostolic life. • of or relating to the pope, esp. when he is regarded as the successor to St. Peter: an apostolic nuncio.
clannish
adjectivechiefly derogatory (of a group or their activities) tending to exclude others outside the group
aggravated
aggravated |ˈagrəˌvātid| adjective [ attrib. ] (of an offense) made more serious by attendant circumstances (such as frame of mind): aggravated burglary. • (of a penalty) made more severe in recognition of the seriousness of an offense: aggravated damages. aggravate |ˈagrəˌvāt| verb [ with obj. ] 1 make (a problem, injury, or offense) worse or more serious: military action would only aggravate the situation. 2 informal annoy or exasperate (someone), esp. persistently: the gesture aggravated me even more | (as adj. aggravating) : she found him thoroughly aggravating and unprofessional.
indignation
anger caused by something that is unfair or wrong
anterior
anterior |anˈti(ə)rēər| adjective 1 technical, chiefly Anatomy & Biology nearer the front, esp. situated in the front of the body or nearer to the head: the veins anterior to the heart. The opposite of posterior.
pepper cress
any pungent plant belonging to the genus Lepidium, of the mustard family, used as a potherb or salad vegetable.
arsenic
arsenic noun |ˈärs(ə)nik| the chemical element of atomic number 33, a brittle steel-gray metalloid.(Symbol: As ) Arsenic compounds (and their poisonous properties) have been known since ancient times, and the metallic form was isolated in the Middle Ages. Arsenic occurs naturally in orpiment, realgar, and other minerals, and rarely as the free element. Arsenic is used in semiconductors and some specialized alloys; its toxic compounds are widely used in wood preservation.
authoritarian
authoritarian |əˌTHôriˈte(ə)rēən, ôˌTHär-| adjective favoring or enforcing strict obedience to authority, esp. that of the government, at the expense of personal freedom: the transition from an authoritarian to a democratic regime. • showing a lack of concern for the wishes or opinions of others; domineering; dictatorial: he had an authoritarian and at times belligerent manner.
barbarous
barbarous |ˈbärbərəs| adjective 1 savagely cruel; exceedingly brutal: many early child-rearing practices were barbarous by modern standards. 2 primitive; uncivilized: a remote and barbarous country. • (esp. of language) coarse and unrefined.
bewilderment
bewilder |biˈwildər| verb [ with obj. ] (often as adj. bewildered) cause (someone) to become perplexed and confused: she seemed frightened and bewildered | his reaction had bewildered her | (as adj. bewildering) : there is a bewildering array of desserts to choose from.
caftan
caftan |ˈkæftən| noun variant spelling of kaftan. kaftan |ˈkaftən, -ˌtan|(also caftan ) noun a man's long belted tunic, worn in countries of the Near East. • a woman's long loose dress. • a loose shirt or top
carcass
carcass |ˈkärkəs|(Brit. also carcase ) noun the dead body of an animal. • the trunk of an animal such as a cow, sheep, or pig, for cutting up as meat. • the remains of a cooked bird after all the edible parts have been removed. • derogatory or humorous a person's body, living or dead: my obsession will last while there's life in this old carcass. • the structural framework of a building, ship, or piece of furniture. • the remains of something being discarded, dismembered, or worthless: the floor is littered with the carcasses of newspapers
carousing
carouse |kəˈrouz| verb [ no obj. ] drink plentiful amounts of alcohol and enjoy oneself with others in a noisy, lively way: they danced and caroused until the drink ran out | (as noun carousing) : a night of carousing.
intermittent
ccurring at irregular intervals; not continuous or steady: intermittent rain.
centenarian
centenarian |ˌsentnˈe(ə)rēən| noun a person who is one hundred or more years old.
christened
christen |ˈkrisən| verb [ with obj. ] give (a baby) a Christian name at baptism as a sign of admission to a Christian Church: [ with obj. and complement ] : their second daughter was christened Jeanette. • give to (someone or something) a name that reflects a notable quality or characteristic: [ with obj. and complement ] : a person so creepy that his colleagues christened him "Millipede." • dedicate (a vessel, building, etc.) ceremonially: their first garbage truck was christened with a bottle of champagne. • informal use for the first time: let's get steaks and christen the new grill
conjectures
conjecture |kənˈjekCHər| noun an opinion or conclusion formed on the basis of incomplete information: conjectures about the newcomer were many and varied | the purpose of the opening in the wall is open to conjecture. • an unproven mathematical or scientific theorem: the Goldbach conjecture. • (in textual criticism) the suggestion or reconstruction of a reading of a text not present in the original source.
conscription
conscription |kənˈskripSHən| noun compulsory enlistment for state service, typically into the armed forces.
consecrated
consecrate |ˈkänsiˌkrāt| verb [ with obj. ] (usu be consecrated) make or declare (something, typically a church) sacred; dedicate formally to a religious or divine purpose: the present Holy Trinity church was consecrated in 1845 | (as adj. consecrated) : consecrated ground. • (in Christian belief) make (bread or wine) into the body or blood of Christ: (as adj. consecrated) : they received the host but not the consecrated wine. • ordain (someone) to a sacred office, typically that of bishop: [ with obj. and complement ] : in 1969 he was consecrated bishop of Northern Uganda. • informal devote (something) exclusively to a particular purpose: they'd decided to consecrate all their energies to this purposeful act.
consolation
consolation |ˌkänsəˈlāSHən| noun comfort received by a person after a loss or disappointment: there was consolation in knowing that others were worse off. • a person or thing providing such comfort: the church was the main consolation in a short and hard life.
consummated
consummate verb |ˈkänsəˌmāt| [ with obj. ] make (a marriage or relationship) complete by having sexual intercourse: his first wife refused to consummate their marriage. • complete (a transaction or attempt); make perfect: his scheme of colonization was consummated through bloodshed.
contraband
contraband |ˈkäntrəˌband| noun goods that have been imported or exported illegally: the police looked for drugs, guns, and other contraband. • trade in smuggled goods: the government has declared a nationwide war on contraband. • (also contraband of war )goods forbidden to be supplied by neutrals to those engaged in war.
cynicism
cynicism |ˈsinəˌsizəm| noun 1 an inclination to believe that people are motivated purely by self-interest; skepticism: public cynicism about politics. • an inclination to question whether something will happen or whether it is worthwhile; pessimism: cynicism about the future.
decrepit
decrepit |diˈkrepit| adjective (of a person) elderly and infirm: a decrepit old drunk. • worn out or ruined because of age or neglect: centuries-old buildings, now decrepit and black with soot.
delirious
delirious |diˈli(ə)rēəs| adjective in an acutely disturbed state of mind resulting from illness or intoxication and characterized by restlessness, illusions, and incoherence of thought and speech. • in a state of wild excitement or ecstasy: there was a great roar from the delirious crowd.
devastation
devastation |ˌdevəˈstāSHən| noun 1 great destruction or damage: the floods caused widespread devastation. 2 severe and overwhelming shock or grief: she spoke of her devastation at his death
diminished
diminished |diˈminiSHt| adjective 1 made smaller or less: a diminished role for local government. • [ predic. ] made to seem less impressive or valuable: she felt diminished by the report. 2 [ attrib. ] Music denoting or containing an interval that is one semitone less than the corresponding minor or perfect interval: a diminished fifth.
improvised
djective created and performed spontaneously or without preparation; impromptu: an improvised short speech. • done or made using whatever is available; makeshift: we slept on improvised beds.
episcopal
djective of a bishop or bishops: episcopal power. • (of a church) governed by or having bishops.
embers
ember |ˈembər| noun (usu. embers) a small piece of burning or glowing coal or wood in a dying fire: the dying embers in the fireplace | figurative : the flickering embers of nationalism.
frock
frock |fräk| noun 1 a woman's or girl's dress. 2 a loose outer garment, in particular: • a long gown with flowing sleeves worn by monks, priests, or clergy. • historical a field laborer's smock. • short for frock coat. 3 [ in sing. ] archaic priestly office: such words as these cost the preacher his frock
furtive
furtive |ˈfərtiv| adjective attempting to avoid notice or attention, typically because of guilt or a belief that discovery would lead to trouble; secretive: they spent a furtive day together | he stole a furtive glance at her. • suggestive of guilty nervousness: the look in his eyes became furtive.
galleon
galleon |ˈgalēən, ˈgalyən| noun a sailing ship in use (esp. by Spain) from the 15th through 17th centuries, originally as a warship, later for trade. Galleons were mainly square-rigged and usually had three or more decks and masts.
gestating
gestate |ˈjeˌstāt| verb [ no obj. ] carry a fetus in the womb from conception to birth: rabbits gestate for approximately twenty-eight days | [ with obj. ] : these individuals gestate male-based litters. • (of a fetus) undergo gestation. • develop over a long period: a research trip he made while gestating his new book.
guerilla
guerrilla |gəˈrilə|(also guerilla ) noun a member of a small independent group taking part in irregular fighting, typically against larger regular forces: this small town fell to the guerrillas | [ as modifier ] : guerrilla warfare. • [ as modifier ] referring to actions or activities performed in an impromptu way, often without authorization: guerrilla theater.
haggard
haggard |ˈhagərd| adjective 1 looking exhausted and unwell, esp. from fatigue, worry, or suffering: I trailed on behind, haggard and disheveled. 2 (of a hawk) caught for training as a wild adult of more than twelve months. Compare with passage hawk.
providential
happening at a good time because of luck 1 occurring at a favorable time; opportune: thanks to that providential snowstorm, the attack had been repulsed. 2 involving divine foresight or intervention: God's providential care for each of us.
hastened
hasten |ˈhāsən| verb [ no obj., with infinitive ] be quick to do something: he hastened to refute the assertion. • [ with adverbial of direction ] move or travel hurriedly: we hastened back to Paris. • [ with obj. ] cause (something) to happen sooner than it otherwise would: a move that could hasten peace talks.
hewn
hew |hyo͞o| verb ( past participle hewn |hyo͞on| or hewed ) 1 [ with obj. ] chop or cut (something, esp. wood) with an ax, pick, or other tool: we have finished hauling and hewing timber. • (usu. be hewn) make or shape (something) by cutting or chopping a material such as wood or stone: a seat hewn out of a fallen tree trunk. 2 [ no obj. ] (hew to) conform or adhere to: some artists took photographs that hewed to more traditional ideas of art.
inconcievable
impossible to imagine or believe : not conceivable
imputed
impute |imˈpyo͞ot| verb [ with obj. ] represent (something, esp. something undesirable) as being done, caused, or possessed by someone; attribute: the crimes imputed to Richard. • Finance assign (a value) to something by inference from the value of the products or processes to which it contributes: (as adj. imputed) : recovering the initial outlay plus imputed interest. • Theology ascribe (righteousness, guilt, etc.) to someone by virtue of a similar quality in another: Christ's righteousness has been imputed to us.
incision
incision |inˈsiZHən| noun a surgical cut made in skin or flesh: an abdominal incision. • a mark or decoration cut into a surface: a block of marble delicately decorated with incisions. • the action or process of cutting into something: the method is associated with less blood loss during incision.
indulge
indulge |inˈdəlj| verb [ no obj. ] (indulge in) allow oneself to enjoy the pleasure of: we indulged in some hot fudge sundaes. • become involved in (an activity, typically one that is undesirable or disapproved of): I don't indulge in idle gossip. • informal allow oneself to enjoy a particular pleasure, esp. that of alcohol: I only indulge on special occasions. • [ with obj. ] satisfy or yield freely to (a desire or interest): she was able to indulge a growing passion for literature. • [ with obj. ] allow (someone) to enjoy a desired pleasure: I spent time indulging myself with secret feasts.
infusion
infusion |inˈfyo͞oZHən| noun 1 a drink, remedy, or extract prepared by soaking the leaves of a plant or herb in liquid. • the process of preparing such a drink, remedy, or extract. 2 the introduction of a new element or quality into something: the infusion of $6.3 million for improvements | an infusion of youthful talent. • Medicine the slow injection of a substance into a vein or tissue.
irreparable
irreparable |iˈrep(ə)rəbəl| adjective (of an injury or loss) impossible to rectify or repair: they were doing irreparable damage to my heart and lungs.
lagoon
lagoon |ləˈgo͞on| noun a stretch of salt water separated from the sea by a low sandbank or coral reef. • a small freshwater lake near a larger lake or river. • an artificial pool for the treatment of effluent or to accommodate surface water that overflows drains during heavy rain.
languid
languid |ˈlaNGgwid| adjective 1 (of a person, manner, or gesture) displaying or having a disinclination for physical exertion or effort; slow and relaxed: they turned with languid movements from back to front so as to tan evenly. • (of an occasion or period of time) pleasantly lazy and peaceful: the terrace was perfect for languid days in the Italian sun. 2 weak or faint from illness or fatigue: she was pale, languid, and weak, as if she had delivered a child.
lucid
lucid |ˈlo͞osid| adjective 1 expressed clearly; easy to understand: a lucid account | write in a clear and lucid style. • showing ability to think clearly, esp. in the intervals between periods of confusion or insanity: he has a few lucid moments every now and then. • Psychology (of a dream) experienced with the dreamer feeling awake, aware of dreaming, and able to control events consciously. 2 literary bright or luminous: birds dipped their wings in the lucid flow of air.
lucidity
lucid |ˈlo͞osid| adjective 1 expressed clearly; easy to understand: a lucid account | write in a clear and lucid style. • showing ability to think clearly, esp. in the intervals between periods of confusion or insanity: he has a few lucid moments every now and then. • Psychology (of a dream) experienced with the dreamer feeling awake, aware of dreaming, and able to control events consciously. 2 literary bright or luminous: birds dipped their wings in the lucid flow of air.
lumbar
lumbar |ˈləmbər, -ˌbär| adjective relating to the lower part of the back: backache in the lumbar region
magistrate
magistrate |ˈmajəˌstrāt| noun a civil officer or lay judge who administers the law, esp. one who conducts a court that deals with minor offenses and holds preliminary hearings for more serious ones
marginal
marginal |ˈmärjənl| adjective of, relating to, or situated at the edge or margin of something: marginal notes. • of secondary or minor importance; not central: it seems likely to make only a marginal difference | a marginal criminal element. • (of a decision or distinction) very narrow: a marginal offside decision.
marginal
marginal |ˈmärjənl| adjective of, relating to, or situated at the edge or margin of something: marginal notes. • of secondary or minor importance; not central: it seems likely to make only a marginal difference | a marginal criminal element. • (of a decision or distinction) very narrow: a marginal offside decision. • of or relating to water adjacent to the land's edge or coast: water lilies and marginal aquatics. • (chiefly of costs or benefits) relating to or resulting from small or unit changes. • (of taxation) relating to increases in income. • chiefly Brit.(of a parliamentary seat) having a small majority and therefore at risk in an election. • close to the limit of profitability, esp. through difficulty of exploitation: marginal farmland.
marquetry
marquetry |ˈmärkətrē|(also marqueterie or marquetery ) noun inlaid work made from small pieces of variously colored wood or other materials, used chiefly for the decoration of furniture
matriarch
matriarch |ˈmātrēˌärk| noun a woman who is the head of a family or tribe. • an older woman who is powerful within a family or organization: a domineering matriarch.
hemorrhage
medical : a condition in which a person bleeds too much and cannot stop the flow of blood
morass
noun 1 an area of muddy or boggy ground. 2 a complicated or confused situation: she would become lost in a morass of lies and explanations.
papiamento
noun a Spanish Creole language with admixtures of Portuguese and Dutch, spoken on the Caribbean islands of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao.
capon
noun a castrated domestic cock fattened for eating.
apparition
noun a ghost or ghostlike image of a person. • the appearance of something remarkable or unexpected, typically an image of this type: twentieth-century apparitions of the Virgin
cordovan
noun a kind of soft leather made originally from goatskin and now from horsehide.
missive
noun a letter, esp. a long or official one: he hastily banged out electronic missives.
mediator
noun a person who attempts to make people involved in a conflict come to an agreement; a go-between. the government appointed a mediator to assist in finding a resolution to the dispute.
cardsharp
noun a person who cheats at cards in order to win money.
accomplices
noun a person who helps another commit a crime.
idolaters
noun a person who worships an idol or idols
shard
noun a piece of broken ceramic, metal, glass, or rock, typically having sharp edges: shards of glass flew in all directions.
arnica
noun a plant of the daisy family that bears yellow daisylike flowers. Native to cooler regions of the northern hemisphere, it is sometimes cultivated as an ornamental.
veranda
noun a roofed platform along the outside of a house, level with the ground floor.
scimitar
noun a short sword with a curved blade that broadens toward the point, used originally in Eastern countries.
mother-of-pearl
noun a smooth shining iridescent substance forming the inner layer of the shell of some mollusks, esp. oysters and abalones, used in ornamentation.
precipice
noun a very steep rock face or cliff, typically a tall one: we swerved toward the edge of the precipice | figurative : the country was teetering on the precipice of political anarchy.
Saracen
noun an Arab or Muslim, esp. at the time of the Crusades. • a nomad of the Syrian and Arabian desert at the time of the Roman Empire.
delirium
noun an acutely disturbed state of mind that occurs in fever, intoxication, and other disorders and is characterized by restlessness, illusions, and incoherence of thought and speech. • wild excitement or ecstasy.
oregano
noun an aromatic plant related to marjoram, with leaves that are used fresh or dried as a culinary herb
lyricism
noun an artist's expression of emotion in an imaginative and beautiful way; the quality of being lyrical.
brooches
noun an ornament fastened to clothing with a hinged pin and catch.
manioc
noun another term for cassava.
lignum vitae
noun another term for guaiacum.---"wood of life"
rancor
noun bitterness or resentfulness, esp. when long-standing: he spoke without rancor.
solicitudes
noun care or concern for someone or something: I was touched by his solicitude.
diligence
noun careful and persistent work or effort.
stealth
noun cautious and surreptitious action or movement: the silence and stealth of a hungry cat | why did you slip away by stealth like this?
penury
noun extreme poverty; destitution: he died in a state of virtual penury.
valor
noun great courage in the face of danger, esp. in battle: the medals are awarded for acts of valor.
fervor
noun intense and passionate feeling: he talked with all the fervor of a new convert. • archaic intense heat.
impertinence
noun lack of respect; rudeness: they gasped at the impertinence of the suggestion.
sediment
noun matter that settles to the bottom of a liquid; dregs. She was very sad when on her white water rafting trip she lost her wedding ring and couldn't find it in the sediment at the bottom of the river because the water was rushing so quickly.
grandeur
noun splendor and impressiveness, esp. of appearance or style: the austere grandeur of mountain scenery. • high rank or social importance: for all their grandeur, the chancellors were still officials of the household
vigilance
noun the action or state of keeping careful watch for possible danger or difficulties.
renown
noun the condition of being known or talked about by many people; fame: authors of great renown.
naught
noun the digit 0; zero
disdain
noun the feeling that someone or something is unworthy of one's consideration or respect; contempt: her upper lip curled in disdain | an aristocratic disdain for manual labor.
divination
noun the practice of seeking knowledge of the future or the unknown by supernatural means.
prudence
noun the quality of being prudent; cautiousness: we need to exercise prudence in such important matters.
complicity
noun the state of being involved with others in an illegal activity or wrongdoing: they were accused of complicity in the attempt to overthrow the government.
havoc
noun widespread destruction: the hurricane ripped through Florida, causing havoc. • great confusion or disorder: schoolchildren were wreaking havoc in the classroom when the teacher stepped out for just a moment to go to the bathroom.
confidantes
noun ( fem. confidantepronunc. same ) a person with whom one shares a secret or private matter, trusting them not to repeat it to others.
augury
noun ( pl. auguries ) a sign of what will happen in the future; an omen: they saw the gloomy, dark clouds as an augory of the misery to come in their life
baptistry
noun ( pl. baptisteries ) the part of a church used for baptism. • historical a building next to a church, used for baptism. • (in a Baptist chapel) a sunken receptacle used for baptism by total immersion.
enigma
noun ( pl. enigmas ) a person or thing that is mysterious, puzzling, or difficult to understand.
mulatto
noun ( pl. mulattoes or mulattos ) a person of mixed white and black ancestry, esp. a person with one white and one black parent.
organdy
noun ( pl. organdies ) a fine translucent cotton or silk fabric that is usually stiffened and used for women's clothing.
shad
noun ( pl. same or shads ) a herringlike fish that spends much of its life in the sea, typically entering rivers to spawn. It is an important food fish in many regions.
vestments
noun (usu. vestments) a chasuble or other robe worn by the clergy or choristers during services. • archaic a garment, esp. a ceremonial or official robe.
bawds
noun archaic a woman in charge of a brothel
pommel
noun |ˈpäməl, ˈpəməl| 1 a rounded knob on the end of the handle of a sword, dagger, or old-fashioned gun. 2 the upward curving or projecting part of a saddle in front of the rider.
torment
noun |ˈtôrment| severe physical or mental suffering: their deaths have left both families in torment. • a cause of such suffering: the journey must have been a torment for them.
permanganate
nounChemistry a salt containing the anion MnO 4−, typically deep purplish-red and with strong oxidizing properties.
catheter
nounMedicine a flexible tube inserted through a narrow opening into a body cavity, particularly the bladder, for removing fluid.
seigneur
nounchiefly historical a feudal lord; the lord of a manor.
novice
novice |ˈnävəs| noun a person new to or inexperienced in a field or situation: he was a complete novice in foreign affairs. • a person who has entered a religious order and is under probation, before taking vows. • an animal, esp. a racehorse, that has not yet won a major prize or reached a level of performance to qualify for important events.
obligatory
obligatory |əˈbligəˌtôrē| adjective required by a legal, moral, or other rule; compulsory: use of seat belts in cars is now obligatory. • so customary or routine as to be expected of everyone or on every occasion: after the obligatory preamble on the weather he got down to business. • (of a ruling) having binding force: a sovereign whose laws are obligatory
oblique
oblique |əˈblēk, ōˈblēk| adjective 1 neither parallel nor at a right angle to a specified or implied line; slanting: we sat on the settee oblique to the fireplace. • not explicit or direct in addressing a point: he issued an oblique attack on the president. • Geometry (of a line, plane figure, or surface) inclined at other than a right angle. • Geometry (of an angle) acute or obtuse. • Geometry (of a cone, cylinder, etc.) with an axis not perpendicular to the plane of its base. • Anatomy (esp. of a muscle) neither parallel nor perpendicular to the long axis of a body or limb. 2 Grammar denoting any case other than the nominative or vocative.
pastoral
pastoral |ˈpastərəl, pasˈtôrəl| adjective 1 (esp. of land or a farm) used for or related to the keeping or grazing of sheep or cattle: scattered pastoral farms. • associated with country life: the view was pastoral, with rolling fields and grazing sheep. • (of a work of art) portraying or evoking country life, typically in a romanticized or idealized form. 2 (in the Christian Church) concerning or appropriate to the giving of spiritual guidance: pastoral and doctrinal issues | clergy doing pastoral work
peremptory
peremptory |pəˈremptərē| adjective (esp. of a person's manner or actions) insisting on immediate attention or obedience, esp. in a brusquely imperious way: "Just do it!" came the peremptory reply. • Law not open to appeal or challenge; final: there has been no disobedience of a peremptory order of the court.
perforation
perforation |ˌpərfəˈrāSHən| noun a hole made by boring or piercing; an aperture passing through or into something: the perforations allow water to enter the well. • a small hole or row of small holes punched in a sheet of paper, e.g., of postage stamps, so that a part can be torn off easily. • the action or state of perforating or being perforated: there was evidence of intestinal perforation.
perplexity
perplexity |pərˈpleksitē| noun ( pl. perplexities ) 1 inability to deal with or understand something complicated or unaccountable: she paused in perplexity. • (usu. perplexities) a complicated or baffling situation or thing: the perplexities of international relations. 2 archaic an entangled state: the dense perplexity of dwarf palm, garlanded creepers, glossy undergrowth.
persistence
persistence |pərˈsistəns| noun firm or obstinate continuance in a course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition: companies must have patience and persistence, but the rewards are there. • the continued or prolonged existence of something: the persistence of huge environmental problems.
pestilential
pestilential |ˌpestəˈlenCHəl| adjective harmful or destructive to crops or livestock: these pestilential lichens flourish only in unpolluted air. • dated of, relating to, or tending to cause infectious diseases: you shouldn't be out on a pestilential night like this. • informal annoying: what a pestilential man
phosphorescent
phosphorescence |ˌfäsfəˈresəns| noun light emitted by a substance without combustion or perceptible heat: the stones overhead gleamed with phosphorescence. • Physics the emission of radiation in a similar manner to fluorescence but on a longer timescale, so that emission continues after excitation ceases.
posthumous
posthumous |ˈpäsCHəməs, pästˈ(h)yo͞oməs| adjective occurring, awarded, or appearing after the death of the originator: he was awarded a posthumous Military Cross | a posthumous collection of his articles. • (of a child) born after the death of its father
predisposed
predispose |ˌprēdiˈspōz| verb [ with obj. ] (predispose someone to/to do something) make someone liable or inclined to a specified attitude, action, or condition: lack of exercise may predispose an individual to high blood pressure.
preliminary
preliminary |priˈliməˌnerē| adjective denoting an action or event preceding or done in preparation for something fuller or more important: preliminary talks | the discussions were seen as preliminary to the policy paper.
pretext
pretext |ˈprēˌtekst| noun a reason given in justification of a course of action that is not the real reason: the rebels had the perfect pretext for making their move.
prodigious
prodigious |prəˈdijəs| adjective 1 remarkably or impressively great in extent, size, or degree: the stove consumed a prodigious amount of fuel. 2 archaic unnatural or abnormal: rumors of prodigious happenings, such as monstrous births.
profanation
profane |prəˈfān, prō-| adjective 1 relating or devoted to that which is not sacred or biblical; secular rather than religious: a talk that tackled topics both sacred and profane. • (of a person) not initiated into religious rites or any esoteric knowledge: he was an agnostic, a profane man. 2 (of a person or their behavior) not respectful of orthodox religious practice; irreverent: desecration of the temple by profane adolescents. • (of language) blasphemous or obscene
quartering
quartering |ˈkwôrtəriNG| noun 1 (quarterings) Heraldry the coats of arms marshalled on a shield to denote the marriages into a family of the heiresses of others. 2 the provision of accommodations or lodgings, esp. for troops. 3 the action of dividing something into four parts.
reciprocal
reciprocal |riˈsiprəkəl| adjective 1 given, felt, or done in return: she was hoping for some reciprocal comment or gesture. 2 (of an agreement or obligation) bearing on or binding each of two parties equally: the treaty is a bilateral commitment with reciprocal rights and duties. • Grammar (of a pronoun or verb) expressing mutual action or relationship. 3 (of a course or bearing) differing from a given course or bearing by 180 degrees. 4 Mathematics (of a quantity or function) related to another so that their product is one.
recourses
recourse |ˈrēˌkôrs, riˈkôrs| noun [ in sing. ] a source of help in a difficult situation: surgery may be the only recourse. • (recourse to) the use of someone or something as a source of help in a difficult situation: a means of solving disputes without recourse to courts of law | all three countries had recourse to the IMF for standby loans. • the legal right to demand compensation or payment: the bank has recourse against the exporter for losses incurred.
reprisals
reprisal |riˈprīzəl| noun an act of retaliation: three youths died in the reprisals that followed | the threat of reprisal. • historical the forcible seizure of a foreign subject or their goods as an act of retaliation.
reproached
reproach |riˈprōCH| verb [ with obj. ] address (someone) in such a way as to express disapproval or disappointment: critics of the administration reproached the president for his failure to tackle the deficiency | [ with direct speech ] : "You know that isn't true," he reproached her. • (reproach someone with) accuse someone of: his wife reproached him with cowardice. • archaic censure or rebuke (an offense)
reproach
reproach |riˈprōCH| verb [ with obj. ] address (someone) in such a way as to express disapproval or disappointment: critics of the administration reproached the president for his failure to tackle the deficiency | [ with direct speech ] : "You know that isn't true," he reproached her. • (reproach someone with) accuse someone of: his wife reproached him with cowardice. • archaic censure or rebuke (an offense). noun the expression of disapproval or disappointment: he gave her a look of reproach | a farrago of warnings and pained reproaches. • (a reproach to) a thing that makes the failings of someone or something else more apparent: his elegance is a living reproach to our slovenly habits.
rifle
rifle 1 |ˈrīfəl| noun a gun, esp. one fired from shoulder level, having a long spirally grooved barrel intended to make a bullet spin and thereby have greater accuracy over a long distance. rifle • (rifles) troops armed with rifles
rigor
rigor |ˈrigər| noun 1 (Brit. rigour )the quality of being extremely thorough, exhaustive, or accurate: his analysis is lacking in rigor. • severity or strictness: the full rigor of the law. • (rigors) demanding, difficult, or extreme conditions: the rigors of a harsh winte
rigorous
rigorous |ˈrigərəs| adjective extremely thorough, exhaustive, or accurate: the rigorous testing of consumer products. • (of a rule, system, etc.) strictly applied or adhered to: rigorous controls on mergers. • (of a person) adhering strictly or inflexibly to a belief, opinion, or way of doing something: a rigorous teetotaler. • harsh and demanding: my exercise regime is a little more rigorous than most | the rigorous climate in the regions of perpetual snow high in the Himalayas.
rustic
rustic |ˈrəstik| adjective 1 of or relating to the countryside; rural. • having a simplicity and charm that is considered typical of the countryside: bare plaster walls and a terra-cotta floor give a rustic feel. • often derogatory lacking the sophistication of the city; backward and provincial: you are a rustic halfwit. 2 constructed or made in a plain and simple fashion, in particular: • made of untrimmed branches or rough timber: a rustic oak bench. • Architecture with rough-hewn or roughened surface or with deeply sunk joints: a rustic bridge. • denoting freely formed lettering, esp. a relatively informal style of handwritten Roman capital letter.
saltpeter
saltpeter |sôltˈpētər|(Brit. saltpetre ) noun another term for potassium nitrate.
salvaged
salvage |ˈsalvij| verb [ with obj. ] rescue (a wrecked or disabled ship or its cargo) from loss at sea: an emerald and gold cross was salvaged from the wreck. • retrieve or preserve (something) from potential loss or adverse circumstances: it was the only crumb of comfort he could salvage from the ordeal.
scandalous
scandalous |ˈskandl-əs| adjective causing general public outrage by a perceived offense against morality or law: a series of scandalous liaisons | a scandalous allegation. • (of a state of affairs) disgracefully bad, typically as a result of someone's negligence or irresponsibility: a scandalous waste of taxpayers' money.
scapular
scapular |ˈskapyələr| adjectiveAnatomy & Zoology of or relating to the shoulder or shoulder blade. noun 1 a short monastic cloak covering the shoulders. • a symbol of affiliation to an ecclesiastical order, consisting of two strips of cloth hanging down the breast and back and joined across the shoulders. 2 Medicine a bandage passing over and around the shoulders. 3 Ornithology a scapular feather
seduced
seduce |siˈd(y)o͞os| verb [ with obj. ] attract (someone) to a belief or into a course of action that is inadvisable or foolhardy: they should not be seduced into thinking that their success ruled out the possibility of a relapse. • entice into sexual activity. • attract powerfully: the melody seduces the ear with warm string tones.
serenade
serenade |ˌserəˈnād| noun a piece of music sung or played in the open air, typically by a man at night under the window of his lover. • another term for serenata.
serviceable
serviceable |ˈsərvəsəbəl| adjective fulfilling its function adequately; usable: an aging but still serviceable water supply system. • functional and durable rather than attractive. • in working order: only twelve aircraft were fully serviceable this morning.
seton
seton |ˈsētn| nounMedicine, historical a skein of cotton or other absorbent material passed below the skin and left with the ends protruding, to promote drainage of fluid or to act as a counterirritant.
spiritualist
spiritualism |ˈspiriCHo͞oəˌlizəm| noun 1 a system of belief or religious practice based on supposed communication with the spirits of the dead, esp. through mediums. 2 Philosophy the doctrine that the spirit exists as distinct from matter, or that spirit is the only reality.
squalid
squalid |ˈskwälid| adjective (of a place) extremely dirty and unpleasant, esp. as a result of poverty or neglect: the squalid, overcrowded prison. • showing or involving a contemptible lack of moral standards: a squalid attempt to save themselves from electoral embarrassment
stigma
stigma |ˈstigmə| noun ( pl. stigmas or esp. in sense 2 stigmata |stigˈmätə, ˈstigmətə| ) 1 a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person: the stigma of mental disorder | to be a nonreader carries a social stigma. 2 (stigmata) (in Christian tradition) marks corresponding to those left on Jesus' body by the Crucifixion, said to have been impressed by divine favor on the bodies of St. Francis of Assisi and others. 3 Medicine a visible sign or characteristic of a disease. • a mark or spot on the skin. 4 Botany (in a flower) the part of a pistil that receives the pollen during pollination.
stolid
stolid |ˈstälid| adjective (of a person) calm, dependable, and showing little emotion or animation.
thoracic
thoracic |THəˈrasik| adjectiveAnatomy & Zoology of or relating to the thorax.
threshold
threshold |ˈTHreSHˌ(h)ōld| noun 1 a strip of wood, metal, or stone forming the bottom of a doorway and crossed in entering a house or room. • [ in sing. ] a point of entry or beginning: she was on the threshold of a dazzling career. • the beginning of an airport runway on which an aircraft is attempting to land. 2 the magnitude or intensity that must be exceeded for a certain reaction, phenomenon, result, or condition to occur or be manifested: nothing happens until the signal passes the threshold | [ as modifier ] : a threshold level. • the maximum level of radiation or a concentration of a substance considered to be acceptable or safe: their water would meet the safety threshold of 50 milligrams of nitrates per liter.
dismemberment
to cut or tear (a body) into pieces : to separate (something) into smaller parts
attributed
to explain by indicating a cause <attributed his success to his coach> 2 a : to regard as a characteristic of a person or thing b : to reckon as made or originated in an indicated fashion <attributed the invention to a Russian> c : classify, designate
garnishing
to put something on (food) as a decoration; also : to be added as a decoration to (food)
tumult
tumult |ˈt(y)o͞oˌməlt| noun [ usu. in sing. ] a loud, confused noise, esp. one caused by a large mass of people: a tumult of shouting and screaming broke out. • confusion or disorder: the whole neighborhood was in a state of fear and tumult | figurative : his personal tumult ended when he began writing songs.
cumbiana
type of colombian dance
unsated
unsated - Dictionary definition and meaning for word unsated. (adj) not having been satisfied. Synonyms : unsatiated , unsatisfied.
disemboweling
verb cut open and remove the internal organs of.
succumbed
verb [ no obj. ] fail to resist (pressure, temptation, or some other negative force): he has become the latest to succumb to the strain. • die from the effect of a disease or injury.
disembarked
verb [ no obj. ] leave a ship, aircraft, or other vehicle: the passengers began to disembark.
geld
verb [ with obj. ] castrate (a male animal). • deprive of vitality or vigor: the English version of the book has been gelded. remove the testicles of (a male animal or man). • deprive of power, vitality, or vigor: (as adj. castrated) : the nation is a castrated giant, afraid to really punish subversives.
bedecked
verb [ with obj. ] decorate: he led us into a room bedecked with tinsel.
devastated
verb [ with obj. ] destroy or ruin (something): the city was devastated by a huge earthquake | bad weather has devastated the tourist industry. • cause (someone) severe and overwhelming shock or grief: she was devastated by the loss of Damian.
ascertained
verb [ with obj. ] find (something) out for certain; make sure of: an attempt to ascertain the cause of the accident | [ with clause ] : management should ascertain whether adequate funding can be provided.
formalized
verb [ with obj. ] give (something) legal or formal status. • give (something) a definite structure or shape: we became able to formalize our thoughts.
absolved
verb [ with obj. ] set or declare (someone) free from blame, guilt, or responsibility: the pardon absolved them of any crimes. • Christian Theology give absolution for (a sin).
predisposed
verb [ with obj. ] (predispose someone to/to do something) make someone liable or inclined to a specified attitude, action, or condition: lack of exercise may predispose an individual to high blood pressure.
filched
verb [ with obj. ] informal pilfer or steal (something, esp. a thing of small value) in a casual way: I was promptly accused of filching Mr. Muir's idea.
enshrouding
verb [ with obj. ] literary envelop completely and hide from view: heavy gray clouds enshrouded the city.
vestments
vestment |ˈves(t)mənt| noun (usu. vestments) a chasuble or other robe worn by the clergy or choristers during services. • archaic a garment, esp. a ceremonial or official robe.
viscera
viscera |ˈvisərə| pluralnoun ( sing. viscus |ˈviskəs| ) the internal organs in the main cavities of the body, esp. those in the abdomen, e.g., the intestines.
vitality
vitality |vīˈtalitē| noun the state of being strong and active; energy: changes that will give renewed vitality to our democracy. • the power giving continuance of life, present in all living things: the vitality of seeds.
