CHAPTER 17 — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from CHAPTER 17

imperceptibly (adverb)

In a way so gradual or subtle as to be barely noticeable.

spectre (noun)

A ghost or ghostly apparition; something widely feared as a possible unpleasant occurrence.

stratagem (noun)

A plan or scheme, especially one used to outwit an opponent or achieve a goal through cleverness.

vexation (noun)

The state of being annoyed, frustrated, or worried; a cause of annoyance.

disconcerted (adjective)

Disturbed or unsettled; thrown off balance by something unexpected.

manifest (adjective)

Clear or obvious to the eye or mind; easily perceived or understood.

supposititious (adjective)

Hypothetical or supposed; substituted for the real thing, often fraudulently.

capricious (adjective)

Given to sudden and unaccountable changes of mood or behavior; unpredictable.

patronized (verb)

Treated with an apparent kindness that betrays a feeling of superiority; also, to give encouragement or support to.

drudge (noun)

A person made to do hard, menial, or dull work; one who labors at tiresome tasks.

untoward (adjective)

Unexpected and inappropriate or inconvenient; unfavorable or unlucky.

latent (adjective)

Existing but not yet developed or manifest; hidden or concealed.

disaffection (noun)

A state of dissatisfaction or disloyalty, especially toward authority or an established order.

embankment (noun)

A wall or bank of earth or stone built to prevent a river from flooding an area, or to carry a road or railway.

sluice gate (noun)

A sliding gate or other device for controlling the flow of water, especially one in a lock or at the mouth of a canal.

jiggered (adjective)

An exclamation used as a mild oath or euphemism; here used by Orlick with deliberately vague, threatening meaning.