Book IV — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Book IV

vouchsafed (verb)

To grant or bestow something as a privilege or favor, often with an implication of condescension from a superior power.

perfidy (noun)

Deliberate breach of faith or trust; treachery.

hecatombs (noun)

Large-scale sacrificial offerings to the gods, traditionally of one hundred cattle; broadly, any lavish sacrifice.

ambuscade (noun)

An ambush; the act of lying in wait in a concealed position to make a surprise attack.

ambrosia (noun)

The food or fragrance of the gods in Greek mythology, associated with immortality and divine sustenance.

prevaricate (verb)

To speak or act evasively; to avoid giving a direct or truthful answer.

guile (noun)

Sly or cunning intelligence; deceitful craftiness.

prowess (noun)

Great skill or bravery, especially in battle or a demanding endeavor.

stratagem (noun)

A plan or scheme, especially one used to outwit an enemy or gain an advantage.

suppliant (noun)

A person who humbly asks or begs for something, especially from someone in a position of power.

clamorous (adjective)

Making a loud, insistent outcry; noisily demanding.

distaff (noun)

A staff used in spinning fiber into thread, held in the hand or tucked under the arm; associated with women's domestic work.

lineage (noun)

Ancestry or line of descent from a particular ancestor; one's family heritage.

barrow (noun)

A mound of earth or stones raised over a grave as a memorial; a burial mound.

menial (noun)

A servant or person performing lowly, unskilled work; also used as an adjective meaning humble or servile.

usurp (verb)

To seize and hold power, position, or rights without legal authority; to take wrongfully.