Chapter III — Vocabulary
Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton — key words and definitions
Vocabulary Words from Chapter III
- scintillating (adjective)
- Sparkling or shining brightly with flashing points of light.
- draughts (noun)
- Deep breaths of air drawn into the lungs; also, currents of air.
- perceptible (adjective)
- Able to be seen, heard, or noticed, even if only barely.
- indentured (adjective)
- Bound to work for someone for a set period, typically to repay a debt or obligation.
- inflamed (verb)
- Provoked or aroused strong feelings, especially of envy or passion.
- ungrudgingly (adverb)
- Without resentment or reluctance; willingly.
- pot-pourri (noun)
- A medley or mixture of musical selections arranged as a single piece.
- stenography (noun)
- The practice of writing in shorthand, used especially for transcribing dictation.
- elasticity (noun)
- The ability to recover quickly from physical weakness or difficulty; resilience.
- tangible (adjective)
- Clear and definite; able to be perceived or grasped as real.
- imperceptible (adjective)
- So slight or subtle as to be almost impossible to notice.
- merino (noun)
- A fine, soft wool fabric originally made from the fleece of merino sheep.
- calico (noun)
- A plain cotton fabric, often printed with small patterns, used for everyday clothing.
- valise (noun)
- A small traveling bag or suitcase.
- querulous (adjective)
- Complaining in a petulant or whining manner.
- sedentary (adjective)
- Characterized by much sitting and little physical activity.
- preclude (verb)
- To prevent from happening; to make impossible.
- plaintively (adverb)
- In a way that expresses suffering or sadness; mournfully.