Chapter 64 - Stubb's Supper — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 64 - Stubb's Supper

argosy (noun)

A large merchant vessel, especially one carrying a rich cargo; here used metaphorically for the whale being towed.

quiescence (noun)

A state of inactivity, quietness, or rest.

monomaniac (adjective)

Relating to an obsessive preoccupation with a single subject or idea to an irrational degree.

intemperately (adverb)

In an excessive or immoderate manner; without restraint.

epicurean (adjective)

Devoted to the pursuit of sensory pleasure, especially fine food and drink.

leviathan (noun)

An enormous sea creature; in Moby-Dick, used as a synonym for the whale.

diabolism (noun)

Worship of or dealings with the devil; devilish wickedness or cruelty.

voracious (adjective)

Extremely eager or greedy in eating; having an insatiable appetite.

congregation (noun)

A group of people or creatures assembled for worship or to hear a sermon.

benediction (noun)

A prayer or blessing spoken at the close of a religious service.

countersinking (noun)

Cutting a cone-shaped depression into a surface so that a screw head sits flush; here describes the symmetrical bite marks left by sharks.

bulwarks (noun)

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

flukes (noun)

The two broad, flat lobes of a whale's tail.

galley (noun)

The kitchen aboard a ship where meals are prepared.

capstan (noun)

A vertical revolving cylinder on a ship's deck, used for winding ropes or cables; Stubb uses it as a dining table.