Chapter 118 - The Quadrant — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 118 - The Quadrant

quadrant (noun)

A navigational instrument used to measure the altitude of the sun or stars to determine latitude at sea.

meridian (noun)

The highest point reached by the sun in the sky; noon. Also, an imaginary circle of longitude passing through a given point on the earth's surface.

wonted (adjective)

Habitual; customary; accustomed.

effulgences (noun)

Brilliant radiations of light; dazzling brightness.

cabalistical (adjective)

Relating to secret or mysterious arts; having an occult or esoteric quality.

lacquered (adjective)

Coated with a hard, glossy finish; here used metaphorically to describe a sky so clear and bright it looks polished.

insufferable (adjective)

Too extreme to bear; intolerable.

revery (noun)

A state of dreamy meditation or abstracted musing; a daydream. (Alternate spelling of reverie.)

impotence (noun)

Lack of power or strength; inability to take effective action.

firmament (noun)

The sky or heavens, especially when regarded as a tangible vault or dome.

dead-reckoning (noun)

A method of navigation using only compass direction, speed, and elapsed time to estimate position, without astronomical observation.

ostentatiously (adverb)

In a showy, conspicuous manner designed to attract attention or impress.

fatalistic (adjective)

Relating to the belief that all events are predetermined and inevitable; accepting of one's fate.

tumultuous (adjective)

Making a loud, confused noise; disorderly or agitated.

knight-heads (noun)

A pair of strong vertical timbers at the bow of a ship, used to support the bowsprit.