Chapter 80 - The Nut — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 80 - The Nut

physiognomically (adverb)

Relating to physiognomy, the practice of assessing character or personality from outward appearance, especially the face.

phrenologist (noun)

A practitioner of phrenology, the pseudoscience of reading character from the shape and bumps of the skull.

superincumbent (adjective)

Lying or resting on top of something; overlying with great weight.

citadel (noun)

A fortress commanding a city; the innermost stronghold of a fortified place.

peremptorily (adverb)

In a manner that allows no denial or refusal; insistently and with absolute certainty.

convolutions (noun)

Coils, twists, or folds; the irregular ridges on the surface of the brain.

Leviathan (noun)

A large sea creature from biblical tradition; here used as a synonym for the whale, suggesting something immense and powerful.

veneration (noun)

Deep respect or reverence; a feeling of awe or devoted admiration.

vertebrae (noun (plural))

The individual bones that make up the spinal column; each segment of the backbone.

conceit (noun)

An elaborate or far-fetched metaphor or idea; an imaginative notion or fancy (not vanity in this context).

basso-relieve (noun)

A low-relief sculpture or carving in which figures project slightly from a flat background (from Italian "basso-rilievo").

cerebellum (noun)

The part of the brain at the back of the skull, responsible for coordination of movement and balance.

betokened (verb (past participle))

Indicated, signified, or served as a sign of something.

indomitableness (noun)

The quality of being impossible to subdue, defeat, or overcome; unconquerable resolve.

audacious (adjective)

Showing a willingness to take bold risks; daring and fearless.