Chapter 98 - Stowing Down and Clearing Up — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 98 - Stowing Down and Clearing Up

surtout (noun)

A man's overcoat or long outer garment; here used metaphorically for the whale's outer layer of blubber.

spermaceti (noun)

A waxy substance found in the head cavity of sperm whales, highly valued for candles, ointments, and lubricants.

profundities (noun)

Great depths, especially of the ocean; also used figuratively for deep or profound matters.

cooper (noun)

A craftsman who makes or repairs wooden casks, barrels, and tubs.

ex officio (adverb)

By virtue of one's position or status; automatically, as part of one's role.

hermetically (adverb)

In an airtight manner; completely sealed so that no air can enter or escape.

profanely (adverb)

In a manner showing disrespect or contempt for sacred things; irreverently.

besooted (adjective)

Covered or blackened with soot.

unctuousness (noun)

The quality of being oily or greasy; covered in an oily substance.

lye (noun)

A strongly alkaline solution, especially of potassium hydroxide, used for washing and cleaning.

adhesiveness (noun)

The quality of sticking or clinging to a surface.

ablutions (noun)

The act of washing oneself; a ceremonial or thorough cleansing of the body.

cambrics (noun)

Fine white linen or cotton fabric, often used for handkerchiefs and shirts.

metempsychosis (noun)

The supposed transmigration of the soul at death into a new body, either human or animal; reincarnation.

defilements (noun)

The state of being made dirty, impure, or morally corrupted; acts of contamination.