Chapter 62 - The Dart — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 62 - The Dart

headsman (noun)

The chief officer of a whale-boat, also called the whale-killer, responsible for lancing and killing the whale once it is harpooned.

harpooneer (noun)

The crew member responsible for throwing the harpoon to fasten the whale-boat to the whale; also called the whale-fastener.

nervous (adjective)

(archaic) Strong, sinewy, and vigorous; possessing muscular power.

iron (noun)

A harpoon — the heavy barbed spear used to strike and fasten to a whale.

dart (noun)

The act of throwing a harpoon at a whale; also refers to the throw itself.

compass (noun)

(archaic) Range or extent; here referring to the full range of one's voice.

crotch (noun)

A forked rest or notched bracket in the bow of a whale-boat that holds the harpoon in position for use.

essays (verb)

(archaic) Attempts or tries, especially with effort or difficulty.

disrated (verb)

Reduced in rank or rating; demoted from one's position aboard ship.

hapless (adjective)

Unfortunate; unlucky; deserving of pity.

boatheader (noun)

The officer who heads or commands the whale-boat; synonymous with headsman.

jeopardy (noun)

Danger of loss, harm, or failure; peril.

imminent (adjective)

About to happen; threatening to occur at any moment.

lance (noun)

A long-handled weapon with a sharp blade, used to kill the whale after it has been harpooned and fastened to the boat.

fishery (noun)

The whaling industry; the business and practice of hunting whales.