CHAPTER 21 — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from CHAPTER 21

chisel (noun)

A cutting tool with a sharp blade used for shaping wood, stone, or metal; here used metaphorically to describe rough facial features.

dints (noun)

Dents or small indentations in a surface.

bereavements (noun)

States of mourning following the death of someone close; periods of grief after a loss.

neckcloth (noun)

A cloth worn around the neck as an article of men's clothing in the 18th and 19th centuries, a precursor to the modern necktie.

pottle (noun)

A small basket or container for fruit, typically holding about half a gallon.

disgorged (verb)

Discharged or ejected from a confined space; poured out.

frouzy (adjective)

Musty, stale, and stuffy; having an unpleasant smell of dampness and neglect.

attired (verb)

Dressed or clothed in; here used figuratively to describe the building as wearing soot and smoke.

penance (noun)

An act of self-punishment or atonement undertaken to show repentance for wrongdoing.

depreciation (noun)

A disparaging or belittling attitude; an expression that diminishes the worth of something or someone.

alleviated (verb)

Made less severe or more bearable; partially relieved.

wicket-gate (noun)

A small gate, especially one set within or beside a larger gate or door.

dilapidated (adjective)

In a state of disrepair or ruin due to age or neglect.

relinquished (verb)

Voluntarily gave up possession or control of something.

incoherently (adverb)

In a manner that is confused, unclear, or difficult to understand.

castors (noun)

Small containers with perforated tops used for sprinkling salt, pepper, or sugar at the table.