Book XXII — Vocabulary
The Odyssey by Homer — key words and definitions
Vocabulary Words from Book XXII
- vouchsafe (verb)
- To grant or bestow something, especially as a favor or privilege from a position of superiority.
- revellers (noun)
- People who are enjoying themselves in a lively, noisy way, especially at a feast or celebration.
- rebuked (verb)
- Expressed sharp disapproval or criticism toward someone.
- redoubtable (adjective)
- Formidable, especially as an opponent; inspiring fear or awe.
- cloister (noun)
- A covered walkway or colonnade, typically surrounding an open courtyard in a building.
- beguile (verb)
- To charm, enchant, or deceive someone, often in order to gain influence over them.
- hotch-pot (noun)
- A pooling or combining of property or assets into a common fund for equal distribution.
- lamentably (adverb)
- In a regrettably inadequate or disappointing manner.
- aegis (noun)
- A divine shield or breastplate associated with Zeus and Athena, used as a weapon to inspire terror in enemies.
- quailed (verb)
- Felt or showed fear; shrank back in dread.
- gadfly (noun)
- A fly that bites livestock, especially cattle and horses, causing them to stampede; figuratively, an irritating pest.
- vaunt (verb)
- To boast or brag about something, especially one's own achievements or qualities.
- besmirched (verb)
- Made dirty or stained; covered with filth or grime.
- requite (verb)
- To repay, return, or retaliate for a service, favor, or injury.
- prowess (noun)
- Great skill or bravery, especially in battle or combat.
- sulphur (noun)
- A yellow chemical element burned as a fumigant for purification and cleansing in ancient religious ritual.