The Masque of the Red Death Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from The Masque of the Red Death

pestilence (noun)

A deadly epidemic disease, especially one regarded as a divine punishment.

dissolution (noun)

The process of dissolving, disintegrating, or dying; the breaking apart of the body.

dauntless (adjective)

Showing fearlessness and determination; unable to be intimidated.

sagacious (adjective)

Having keen mental discernment and good judgment; shrewd and wise.

depopulated (adjective)

Greatly reduced in population, especially by disease, war, or disaster.

crenellated (adjective)

Having battlements with alternating raised sections and gaps, as on a castle wall.

august (adjective)

Inspiring reverence or admiration; majestic and grand.

girdled (verb)

Encircled or surrounded completely.

ingress (noun)

The act or right of entering; a way in.

egress (noun)

The act or right of going out; a way out or exit.

improvisatori (noun)

Italian plural of improvisatore: performers who compose and recite poetry or music spontaneously.

voluptuous (adjective)

Characterized by luxury, sensual pleasure, and fullness of form or experience.

brazier (noun)

A portable metal container used to hold burning coals or fire for warmth or light.

countenances (noun)

Faces or facial expressions, especially as indicators of mood or character.

sedate (adjective)

Calm, dignified, and unhurried in manner or character.

piquancy (noun)

A pleasantly stimulating or exciting quality; sharpness or provocativeness.

arabesque (adjective)

Elaborately ornamental in design, featuring intricate patterns of intertwining lines and shapes.

sable (adjective)

Black or very dark in color, often associated with mourning or darkness.

habiliments (noun)

Clothing or attire, especially of a distinctive kind associated with a particular role.

visage (noun)

A person's face, especially with regard to the expression it bears.

vesture (noun)

Clothing or garments; a covering or vestment.

impetuosity (noun)

The quality of acting quickly and without thought or care; impulsive rashness.

prostrate (adjective)

Lying stretched out on the ground, face downward, especially in submission or helplessness.

cerements (noun)

Waxed wrappings or cloths used to wrap a dead body for burial.

illimitable (adjective)

Without limits or end; boundless and infinite.