Chapter 23 - The Lee Shore — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 23 - The Lee Shore

vindictive (adjective)

Having or showing a strong, unreasoning desire for revenge; here used to personify the ship as aggressively attacking the sea.

tempestuous (adjective)

Characterized by strong, turbulent, or conflicting emotions or actions; stormy and violent.

epitaphs (noun)

Phrases or statements written in memory of a person who has died, especially inscribed on a tombstone.

succor (noun)

Assistance or support in times of hardship or distress; relief or aid.

fain (adverb)

Gladly; willingly. An archaic adverb meaning "with pleasure" or "eagerly."

mortalities (noun)

The state of being subject to death; here used to mean mortal human nature and its physical needs.

jeopardy (noun)

Danger of loss, harm, or failure; a state of serious risk or peril.

leeward (adjective)

On or toward the side sheltered from the wind; the direction toward which the wind is blowing.

intrepid (adjective)

Fearless and adventurous; showing bold courage in the face of danger.

treacherous (adjective)

Guilty of or involving betrayal or deception; hazardous because of presenting hidden dangers.

slavish (adjective)

Showing no originality or independence; blindly obedient or submissive.

ingloriously (adverb)

In a manner that brings shame or dishonor; without glory or distinction.

craven (adjective)

Contemptibly lacking in courage; cowardly.

apotheosis (noun)

The elevation of someone to divine status; the highest point of development or glorification.

landlessness (noun)

The state of being without land; Melville's coined term for the condition of being perpetually at sea, symbolizing intellectual and spiritual freedom.