Chapter III: Reading — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter III: Reading

dissipation

Wasteful or frivolous indulgence in pleasure; squandering of resources or energy on trivial pursuits.

consecrate

To dedicate solemnly to a sacred purpose or worthy goal.

provender

Food or provisions, especially dry food for livestock; figuratively, intellectual nourishment or material.

deliquium

A melting or dissolving away; a fainting or loss of consciousness; a gradual wasting.

sedulously

With diligent, persistent, and careful effort; industriously.

equable

Steady, even-tempered, and uniform; not subject to sudden changes or disturbance.

esoteric

Intended for or understood by only a select few with specialized knowledge; obscure or arcane.

posterity

All future generations of people; one's descendants.

magnanimity

Generosity of spirit; the quality of being noble, courageous, and forgiving, especially toward rivals or those less powerful.

colloquies

Conversations or dialogues, especially formal or literary ones.

firmament

The vault or arch of the sky; the heavens, especially as conceived as a solid dome in ancient cosmology.

aliment

Food or nourishment; that which sustains or supports life, whether physical or intellectual.

Lyceum

A public hall or institution for lectures, concerts, and educational programs; named after Aristotle's school in Athens.

Zendavestas

The sacred texts of Zoroastrianism, the ancient Persian religion. Also spelled Zend-Avesta.

conjecturing

Forming an opinion or conclusion based on incomplete evidence; guessing or inferring thoughtfully.