Chapter 71 - The Jeroboam's Story — Vocabulary

Moby-Dick; or, The Whale by Herman Melville — key words and definitions

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 71 - The Jeroboam's Story

malignant (adjective)
Very virulent or infectious; tending to produce death or deterioration.
peremptorily (adverb)
In a way that admits no contradiction or refusal; absolutely and decisively.
cabalistically (adverb)
In a manner relating to secret or mystical interpretation; having an occult or mysterious quality.
scaramouch (noun)
A boastful but cowardly person; originally a stock character in Italian comedy known for clownish behavior.
ascendency (noun)
Dominant influence or control over others; the state of being in a commanding position.
preternatural (adjective)
Beyond what is normal or natural; extraordinary, especially in a way that suggests the supernatural.
perdition (noun)
Complete and utter ruin; in theology, eternal damnation or the loss of the soul.
relinquish (verb)
To voluntarily give up or abandon a claim, right, or course of action.
gibbering (adjective)
Speaking rapidly and unintelligibly; chattering incoherently.
ardor (noun)
Intense enthusiasm, passion, or eagerness; fervent devotion to a purpose.
sacrilegious (adjective)
Involving or guilty of violating something sacred; grossly disrespectful toward what is held holy.
missive (noun)
A letter, especially a long or official one.
freshet (noun)
A sudden overflow or rush; originally a rush of fresh water, used here figuratively for a sudden outburst.
stolidly (adverb)
In a calm, impassive manner showing little emotion or animation.
impaling (verb)
Piercing or transfixing with a sharp instrument.

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