Book XV — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Book XV

suppliant (noun)

A person who humbly begs or entreats, especially one seeking refuge or mercy, invoking a sacred social obligation in ancient Greek culture.

gewgaws (noun)

Showy but cheap or worthless trinkets and ornaments; flashy decorative items of little real value.

cajoled (verb)

Persuaded someone through sustained flattery, false promises, or gentle but persistent urging to do something.

forecourt (noun)

An outer courtyard or open area in front of a building, especially a palace or large house.

doughty (adjective)

Brave and resolute; showing determined courage, especially in the face of danger.

hawsers (noun)

Thick ropes or cables used for mooring or towing a ship.

forestays (noun)

Strong ropes or cables running from the top of a ship's mast to the bow, used to support and stabilize the mast.

buffeted (verb)

Struck repeatedly; knocked about by misfortune, hardship, or physical blows.

freighted (verb)

Loaded or filled with goods for transport, especially cargo on a ship.

ewer (noun)

A type of pitcher with a wide mouth, often ornamental, used for pouring water for hand-washing.

inlaid (adjective)

Decorated by embedding pieces of a contrasting material (such as gold or ivory) into a surface to form a pattern or design.

ordained (verb)

Decreed or commanded by fate, divine will, or established authority; destined.

comely (adjective)

Pleasing or attractive in appearance; good-looking.

seer (noun)

A person gifted with profound moral and spiritual insight or knowledge; a prophet who can foresee future events.

sundry (adjective)

Various; of different kinds; several miscellaneous items.

chattels (noun)

Personal possessions or property, especially movable goods as opposed to land or buildings.