Chapter 21 — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 21

stertorous (adjective)

Characterized by heavy, labored breathing with a snoring or rasping sound, typically indicating serious illness.

trephine (verb)

To perform surgery by cutting a hole in the skull to relieve pressure on the brain.

suffusion (noun)

The spreading or flushing of a fluid, especially blood, through body tissue.

celerity (noun)

Swiftness of movement or action; rapidity.

inured (adjective)

Accustomed to something, especially something unpleasant, through prolonged exposure.

appalled (adjective)

Greatly dismayed or horrified; shocked with fear or disgust.

aquiline (adjective)

Curved like an eagle's beak; hooked. Often used to describe a prominent, curved nose.

pallor (noun)

An unhealthy pale appearance, especially of the face.

stupor (noun)

A state of near-unconsciousness or insensibility; mental numbness.

countermining (verb)

Working secretly to defeat or frustrate an opponent's plans; counter-plotting.

myriads (noun)

Countless numbers; an extremely large, indefinite quantity.

impassiveness (noun)

The quality of showing no emotion or feeling; outward calm despite inner turmoil.

convulsively (adverb)

With sudden, involuntary, spasmodic movements; in an uncontrolled manner.

exertions (noun)

Physical or mental efforts; vigorous actions requiring energy.

intrigued (verb)

Engaged in secret scheming and plotting; carried on underhand machinations.