Chapter XXIX — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter XXIX

venturing (verb)

Daring to do or say something that may be considered risky or presumptuous.

availed (verb)

Made use of; took advantage of.

sallower (adjective)

More yellowish or unhealthily pale in complexion.

annihilate (verb)

To destroy utterly; to reduce to nothing.

potent (adjective)

Having great power, influence, or effect.

compel (verb)

To force or oblige someone to do something.

defiance (noun)

Open resistance; bold disobedience.

gall (noun)

Bile; used figuratively to mean deep bitterness or resentment.

dreary (adjective)

Dull, bleak, and depressing.

scornfully (adverb)

In a manner showing open contempt or disdain.

sexton (noun)

A person who looks after a church and churchyard, often including grave-digging duties.

soldered (verb)

Joined or sealed with a metal alloy; here meaning permanently sealed shut.

incessantly (adverb)

Without interruption; constantly and without ceasing.

remorselessly (adverb)

Without pity, compassion, or any feeling of regret.

delve (verb)

To dig deeply into the ground.

relinquished (verb)

Voluntarily gave up or released one's hold on something.

beguile (verb)

To charm, enchant, or deceive in a misleading way.

spectre (noun)

A ghost or ghostly apparition; also used figuratively for a haunting or disturbing image.