Chapter 121 - Midnight - The Forecastle Bulwarks — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 121 - Midnight - The Forecastle Bulwarks

bulwarks (noun)

The sides of a ship above the upper deck, serving as a protective barrier.

lashings (noun)

Ropes or cords used to secure or bind something tightly in place.

lucifers (noun)

Early friction matches; wooden sticks tipped with a combustible compound that ignites when struck.

contrary (noun)

The opposite statement or position; something directly opposed.

hydrants (noun)

Here used figuratively to mean sources of water that serve as natural fire protection (the ocean spray).

timber-head (noun)

A projecting piece of timber on a ship used for fastening ropes; used here as a humorous insult meaning blockhead.

King-Post (noun)

A short, square timber in Arctic whaling ships used for bracing; also Flask's nickname due to his compact build.

skewered (adjective)

Pierced or impaled on a pointed stick or pin.

clinch (verb)

To fasten securely; in nautical terms, to secure a rope by making a half hitch.

long-togs (noun)

Long-tailed coats or formal dress clothing, as opposed to short working jackets.

swallow-tail (noun)

A formal coat with long tapering tails at the back, resembling a swallow's tail feathers.

beaver (noun)

A tall hat made of beaver fur or felt, worn as formal headwear in the 19th century.

tarpaulin (noun)

A waterproof hat or cap worn by sailors; also refers to waterproof canvas material.

unmannerly (adjective)

Rude; lacking good manners or courtesy.