Part V - Chapter II — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Part V - Chapter II

paroxysms (noun)

Sudden, violent outbursts of emotion or activity; intense spasms.

overstrained (adjective)

Pushed beyond the limits of endurance; excessively stressed or taxed.

nonchalance (noun)

A state of calm indifference or casual lack of concern.

magnanimous (adjective)

Very generous or forgiving, especially toward a rival or someone less powerful.

vouchsafe (verb)

To give or grant something in a gracious or condescending manner.

contemptuously (adverb)

In a manner showing disdain or a lack of respect; scornfully.

draggletails (noun)

Slovenly, untidy women; women of low social standing. A derogatory term suggesting dishevelment.

hectic (adjective)

Relating to or affected by a feverish flush, especially one associated with tuberculosis.

haughtiness (noun)

The quality of being arrogantly superior; disdainful pride.

incontestably (adverb)

In a way that cannot be disputed or denied; indisputably.

entreé (noun)

A dish served as the main course of a meal, or between the first and main courses.

samovar (noun)

A large, ornate Russian metal urn used to heat water for tea, with a spigot near the base.

commissariat (noun)

A government department responsible for military supplies and provisions.

burgomeister (noun)

The mayor or chief magistrate of a German or Dutch town.

consumption (noun)

An older term for tuberculosis, a wasting disease of the lungs characterized by coughing, fever, and progressive deterioration.

disinterestedly (adverb)

Without personal bias or selfish motivation; impartially.