Chapter 7 — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 7

sultry (adjective)

Hot and humid; oppressively warm with little or no breeze.

eminence (noun)

A piece of high ground; a hill or elevated area offering a commanding view.

stanchions (noun)

Upright posts or supports, especially those used as guardrails on ships or piers.

derelict (noun)

A ship abandoned at sea or cast ashore, especially one without a crew.

mirabile dictu (interjection)

A Latin phrase meaning "wonderful to relate" or "amazingly," expressing astonishment.

spume (noun)

Foam or froth formed on the surface of water, especially by waves.

concussion (noun)

A violent shaking or jarring impact, as from a collision.

pique (verb)

To stimulate or arouse (curiosity or interest).

mortmain (noun)

Literally "dead hand" in legal terminology; the holding of property by an institution or person in perpetuity.

ballast (noun)

Heavy material placed in the hold of a ship to ensure stability, especially when cargo is light.

backsheesh (noun)

A tip or bribe, especially one given to expedite official business in the Middle East.

demoralised (adjective)

Having lost confidence, hope, or discipline; weakened in spirit.

companionway (noun)

A stairway or ladder leading from a ship's deck to the cabin or lower deck below.

cortege (noun)

A solemn procession, especially at a funeral.

bulwark (noun)

The side of a ship above the upper deck, serving as a protective barrier.

lanthorns (noun)

An archaic form of "lanterns," referring to enclosed lights or lamps.