Chapter 1 — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 1

orthodoxy (noun)

Strict adherence to accepted or established beliefs, especially in religion or politics. In 1984, it means unquestioning loyalty to Party doctrine.

telescreen (noun)

A two-way television device that broadcasts Party propaganda while simultaneously monitoring citizens. It cannot be turned off, only dimmed.

subterfuge (noun)

A deceptive strategy or device used to achieve a goal; trickery employed to conceal one's true purpose.

fatalism (noun)

The belief that all events are predetermined and therefore inevitable, leading to a resigned acceptance of whatever happens.

convoy (noun)

A group of vehicles or people traveling together, often under armed escort for protection or as prisoners.

celibacy (noun)

Abstention from sexual relations, often as a deliberate practice or vow.

dissent (noun)

The expression of opinions that differ from those officially held; disagreement with established authority.

proles (noun)

Short for proletarians. In 1984, the working-class majority of Oceania's population who live in relative freedom because the Party considers them too ignorant to pose a political threat.

furtive (adjective)

Attempting to avoid notice or attention, typically because of guilt or the belief that discovery would bring trouble.

rendezvous (noun)

A meeting at an agreed time and place, often one arranged secretly.

subversive (adjective)

Seeking or intended to undermine an established system or institution, especially a political one.

Junior Anti-Sex League (noun)

A Party youth organization that advocates complete sexual purity and the abolition of the sex instinct, channeling repressed desire into Party loyalty. Members are identified by a scarlet sash.

choreograph (verb)

To plan and arrange the sequence of movements or steps in a situation with careful precision.

anonymity (noun)

The state of being unknown or unidentifiable, of blending in so that one's individual actions go unnoticed.