Chapter 123 - The Musket — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 123 - The Musket

spasmodic (adjective)

Occurring in brief, irregular bursts; relating to or affected by spasms.

preventer (noun)

In nautical use, an additional rope or tackle used to support or reinforce a spar or line against unexpected strain.

vicissitudes (noun)

Changes of circumstances or fortune, typically unwelcome or unpleasant.

portends (noun)

Signs or warnings of coming events, especially ominous ones (variant of "portents").

apprise (verb)

To inform or tell someone of something.

subterraneousness (noun)

The quality of being underground or beneath the surface; here, the buried, enclosed feeling of the cabin.

bulkhead (noun)

A dividing wall or partition within a ship, aircraft, or other vessel.

blent (verb)

An archaic past tense of "blend"; mixed or mingled.

quadrant (noun)

A navigational instrument used to measure the altitude of celestial bodies to determine latitude.

remonstrance (noun)

A forcefully reproachful protest or objection.

pinioned (adjective)

Restrained by tying or binding the arms or legs.

hawsers (noun)

Thick ropes or cables used for mooring or towing a ship.

tindering (verb)

Setting alight like tinder (dry, flammable material); burning.

entreaty (noun)

An earnest or humble request; a plea.

trysail (noun)

A small, strong fore-and-aft sail set on a mast in heavy weather.