CHAPTER 29 — Vocabulary
Great Expectations by Charles Dickens — key words and definitions
Vocabulary Words from CHAPTER 29
- betimes (adverb)
- Early; in good time; before it is too late.
- loitered (verb)
- To move slowly or linger without clear purpose; to dawdle.
- labyrinth (noun)
- A complicated, irregular network of passages or paths; a maze, often used figuratively for a complex situation.
- archly (adverb)
- In a playfully knowing or teasing manner; with a sly or roguish quality.
- composure (noun)
- A state of calm self-possession and control over one's emotions.
- subjection (noun)
- The state of being under the control or dominance of another; subordination.
- hankerings (noun)
- Strong, persistent desires or longings for something.
- rankled (verb)
- Caused persistent irritation, bitterness, or resentment.
- vehemence (noun)
- Great intensity of feeling or force of expression; passionate fervor.
- reticence (noun)
- The quality of being reserved or reluctant to speak freely; habitual silence or restraint in expression.
- funereal (adjective)
- Having the gloomy, somber character appropriate to a funeral.
- ravenous (adjective)
- Extremely eager or greedy; voraciously hungry (here used figuratively to describe desperate emotional intensity).
- imperiously (adverb)
- In a domineering, commanding manner that assumes authority and brooks no contradiction.
- condescending (adjective)
- Showing a patronizing attitude of superiority toward someone considered to be of lower status.
- inaccessibility (noun)
- The quality of being unreachable, unapproachable, or beyond one's ability to attain.
- disparity (noun)
- A great difference or inequality between things, especially in status, degree, or circumstance.