Part II - Chapter VI — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Part II - Chapter VI

delirium

A disturbed state of mind characterized by restlessness, illusions, and incoherent thought, often caused by fever or illness.

stifling

Suffocatingly hot and close; oppressively airless.

superciliously

In a way that shows arrogant superiority and disdain; condescendingly.

pomaded

Having hair styled with pomade, a greasy or waxy substance used to give a smooth, shiny appearance.

sententiously

In a moralizing or pompously authoritative manner; giving opinions as though they are established truths.

rapture

A feeling of intense pleasure or ecstatic joy; in this context, a wild, almost uncontrollable emotional elevation.

samovar

A large Russian metal container with a spigot, used for heating water for tea, traditionally heated by charcoal in an internal tube.

huckster

A person who sells small items, typically at a stall or booth; a peddler or hawker.

crinoline

A stiffened or hooped petticoat worn under a skirt to make it stand out; a fashionable garment of the 19th century.

contorted

Twisted or bent out of normal shape; distorted, especially of facial features showing strong emotion.

parapet

A low protective wall or railing along the edge of a bridge, balcony, or roof.

spermaceti

A waxy substance found in the head cavities of sperm whales, historically used in candles and ointments. Razumihin uses it metaphorically to call people soft and artificial.

indifferent

Having no particular interest or sympathy; unconcerned or apathetic.

apathy

Lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern; emotional numbness or indifference.

tempest

A violent, windy storm; used figuratively to describe extreme turmoil or disturbance.