Chapter II — Vocabulary
The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka — key words and definitions
Vocabulary Words from Chapter II
- palpitating (adjective)
- Trembling or quivering rapidly, often from excitement, exertion, or nervousness.
- execrate (verb)
- To feel or express strong hatred or loathing toward something.
- ministrations (noun)
- Acts of care, service, or assistance provided to someone in need.
- casements (noun)
- Windows or window frames that are hinged at the side and open outward or inward.
- conduce (verb)
- To lead or contribute to a particular result or outcome.
- recalcitrance (noun)
- Stubborn resistance to authority or control; defiant unwillingness to cooperate.
- admonitions (noun)
- Firm warnings or expressions of disapproval, often given as advice or counsel.
- forlorn (adjective)
- Pitifully sad, lonely, or abandoned; desolate.
- propitiate (verb)
- To win the favor or forgiveness of someone, especially by making amends.
- exultant (adjective)
- Feeling or showing triumphant elation or jubilation.
- laboriously (adverb)
- In a way that requires considerable effort and hard work; with great difficulty.
- visage (noun)
- A person's face or facial expression, especially when conveying a particular mood.
- cannoned (verb)
- Collided or struck forcefully against something, often bouncing off in another direction.
- derangement (noun)
- A state of mental disturbance or disorder; extreme confusion.
- concierge (noun)
- A building caretaker or doorkeeper, especially in a European apartment building.
- underbodice (noun)
- An undergarment worn over the torso beneath outer clothing, similar to a corset or camisole.