Chapter 12 — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 12

subversive (adjective)

Seeking or intended to undermine an established system or institution.

melancholy (noun)

A deep, persistent sadness or gloom.

pneumatic (adjective)

In World State slang, voluptuous or physically attractive; literally, relating to air or gas pressure.

decant (verb)

To pour liquid from one container to another; in the novel, the process of birthing humans from artificial wombs.

censorship (noun)

The suppression or prohibition of speech, writing, or other forms of expression deemed objectionable or dangerous by an authority.

sycophant (noun)

A person who flatters someone important in order to gain advantage.

fickleness (noun)

The quality of being changeable in loyalties, interests, or affection.

solitude (noun)

The state of being alone, often by choice; isolation from others.

soma (noun)

A fictional drug in the novel that produces euphoria, hallucinations, and pleasant sensations with no side effects, used to maintain social control.

resentment (noun)

Bitter indignation at having been treated unfairly.

conformist (noun)

A person who conforms to accepted behavior or established practices without questioning them.

monogamy (noun)

The practice of having only one romantic or sexual partner at a time.

autonomy (noun)

The right or condition of self-governance; personal independence and freedom of will.

aesthetic (adjective)

Concerned with beauty or the appreciation of beauty, especially in art.

destabilize (verb)

To undermine the stability of a system, government, or established order.