Chapter 18 — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 18

ungainly (adjective)

Clumsy or awkward in movement or shape

impetus (noun)

The force or energy with which something moves; momentum

volition (noun)

The power of using one's own will; a conscious choice or decision

demeanour (noun)

Outward behavior or manner; bearing

disconcerting (adjective)

Causing unease or confusion; unsettling

certitude (noun)

Absolute certainty or conviction

spasmodically (adverb)

In sudden, brief, irregular bursts; intermittently

inexorable (adjective)

Impossible to stop or prevent; relentless

jugular (adjective/noun)

Relating to the large veins in the neck that carry blood from the head

throttling (verb (present participle))

Choking or strangling by compressing the throat

waxed (verb)

Grew or became (used in a literary or formal sense)

derisively (adverb)

In a mocking or scornful manner

abysmal (adjective)

Extremely deep or profound; here suggesting primitive or primordial depths

peremptory (adjective)

Insisting on immediate obedience; commanding and brooking no refusal

alacrity (noun)

Brisk and eager readiness, often prompted by urgency

rejoinder (noun)

A sharp or witty reply

gyrations (noun)

Rapid circular or spiraling movements

disembowelled (verb (past participle))

Had the internal organs torn out of the body