Chapter 8 — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 8

languid (adjective)

Lacking energy or vitality; weak and faint.

wan (adjective)

Pale and giving the impression of illness or exhaustion.

morbid (adjective)

Characterized by an abnormal and unhealthy interest in disturbing or unpleasant subjects; relating to disease.

reticence (noun)

The quality of being reserved or reluctant to speak freely; restraint.

paroxysm (noun)

A sudden attack or violent expression of a particular emotion or activity.

enigmatically (adverb)

In a manner that is mysterious, puzzling, or difficult to interpret.

servile (adjective)

Excessively willing to serve or please others; submissive.

haughty (adjective)

Arrogantly superior and disdainful.

condescend (verb)

To do something that one considers to be below one's dignity; to behave as though one is superior.

pall (noun)

A cloth draped over a coffin; figuratively, a dark or gloomy covering or atmosphere.

diorama (noun)

A scenic representation with three-dimensional figures; here used to describe a shifting visual scene.

transfixed (verb (past tense))

Pierced through with a sharp implement; also, rendered motionless with wonder or astonishment.

anemic (adjective)

Suffering from anemia, a condition in which the blood lacks adequate red blood cells, causing pallor and weakness.

obviate (verb)

To remove or prevent (a difficulty or disadvantage); to make unnecessary.

delirium (noun)

A disturbed state of mind characterized by restlessness, illusions, and incoherent speech, typically caused by fever or illness.

lack-luster (adjective)

Lacking in vitality, brightness, or conviction; dull.