Chapter 74 - The Sperm Whale's Head - Contrasted View — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 74 - The Sperm Whale's Head - Contrasted View

cetology (noun)

The branch of zoology that deals with the study of whales, dolphins, and porpoises.

pervading (adjective)

Spreading through and permeating every part of something; thoroughly present.

imperceptibly (adverb)

In a way that is so slight or gradual as to be impossible to perceive.

vacillations (noun)

Indecisive wavering between different opinions, actions, or directions.

volition (noun)

The faculty or power of using one's will; the act of making a conscious choice or decision.

diametrically (adverb)

In a completely opposite or contrary way; at opposite extremes.

quill (noun)

A hollow shaft of a feather; here used as a unit of measure for the whale's tiny ear opening.

subtilize (verb)

To make subtle or refined; to sharpen in quality rather than increase in size or capacity.

portentous (adjective)

Ominously significant; of a nature to excite wonder or amazement; impressively great.

portcullis (noun)

A strong, heavy grating that can be lowered to block a gateway, typically in a castle fortification.

supine (adjective)

Failing to act or protest as a result of moral weakness or indolence; lying face upward.

imprecate (verb)

To invoke evil upon; to curse.

dispirited (adjective)

Having lost enthusiasm, hope, or courage; dejected and disheartened.

jibboom (noun)

A spar forming an extension of the bowsprit on a sailing ship, projecting forward at a steep angle.

hypochondriac (noun)

A person abnormally anxious about their health; here used humorously to describe a listless, dejected whale.