Chapter 4 — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 4

surmise (noun)

A supposition or guess based on incomplete evidence.

fain (adverb)

Gladly; willingly (archaic).

countermand (verb)

To revoke or cancel an order or command.

obeisance (noun)

A gesture expressing respectful submission, such as a bow or curtsy.

portmanteau (noun)

A large traveling bag, typically made of leather and opening into two equal parts.

leiter-wagon (noun)

A large open wagon with ladder-like side frames, used in Eastern Europe for hauling heavy loads.

hetman (noun)

A leader or chief, especially of a Cossack or Romani band.

embrasure (noun)

A recess in a wall, especially one formed by the widening of a window opening on its inner side.

gambolling (verb (present participle))

Running or jumping about playfully; frolicking.

dishevelled (adjective)

Having disordered or untidy hair or clothing.

diligence (noun)

A public stagecoach, especially one used in France or other parts of continental Europe.

basilisk (noun (used as adjective))

A mythical serpent whose gaze was said to be fatal; used figuratively to describe an intensely threatening stare.

repletion (noun)

The state of being excessively full, especially from overeating or overdrinking.

boyar (noun)

A member of the highest rank of the feudal aristocracy in Romania and other Eastern European countries.

mattock (noun)

A hand tool similar to a pickaxe, used for digging and grubbing.