Chapter 43 - Hark! — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 43 - Hark!

middle-watch

The watch period on a ship from midnight to 4 a.m., one of the standard naval watch divisions.

cordon

A line or chain of people stationed at intervals, here forming a human chain for passing objects.

scuttle-butt

A cask on a ship containing the day's supply of drinking water; also the origin of the modern slang term for gossip or rumors.

taffrail

The rail around the stern (rear) of a ship, typically at the top of the poop deck.

quarter-deck

The rear part of the upper deck of a ship, traditionally reserved for officers and considered a place of authority and respect.

hallowed

Regarded as holy or sacred; greatly revered and honored.

precincts

The area within the boundaries of a particular place; an enclosed or defined space.

after-hatches

The hatchway openings located toward the stern (rear) of a ship, providing access to the cargo hold below.

Cholo

In 19th-century maritime usage, a person of mixed Indigenous and Spanish descent from South America, commonly employed as a sailor.

Caramba

A Spanish exclamation expressing surprise, annoyance, or frustration, similar to "good grief" or "darn."

after-hold

The storage area in the rear lower section of a ship's hull, used for cargo or supplies.

Mogul

A reference to the powerful Mughal emperors of India; used here as a nickname for Captain Ahab, implying autocratic power and authority.