CHAPTER 33 — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from CHAPTER 33

chary (adjective)

Cautious; wary about doing something; reluctant to take risks.

beholden (adjective)

Owing gratitude or being indebted to someone for a service or favor.

diffident (adjective)

Modest or shy because of a lack of self-confidence.

disinterested (adjective)

Not influenced by personal advantage; impartial and unbiased.

composedly (adverb)

In a calm and self-controlled manner; with equanimity.

slightingly (adverb)

In a dismissive or disrespectful manner; with casual contempt.

rallying (adjective)

Teasing or bantering in a good-humored way.

insinuations (noun)

Indirect or subtle suggestions of something bad or discreditable.

pattens (noun)

Wooden overshoes mounted on iron rings, worn to raise feet above muddy streets.

ostler (noun)

A person employed at an inn to look after horses.

perplexity (noun)

A state of bewilderment or confusion caused by complexity or difficulty.

languidly (adverb)

In a slow, relaxed manner lacking energy or enthusiasm.

superfluous (adjective)

Unnecessary; more than what is needed or required.

intercourse (noun)

Communication or dealings between people (archaic usage meaning social interaction).

habituated (adjective)

Made accustomed to something through repeated exposure.

farthingale (noun)

A hooped petticoat or stiff framework used to extend a woman's skirt in the 16th-17th centuries.