Chapter 23 — Vocabulary
White Fang by Jack London — key words and definitions
Vocabulary Words from Chapter 23
- sanctioned (verb (past tense))
- Officially approved or authorized; gave formal permission for.
- perforce (adverb)
- By necessity; unavoidably; as a matter of obligation.
- perpetrated (verb (past tense))
- Carried out or committed, typically a harmful, illegal, or immoral action.
- malignant (adjective)
- Showing intense ill will; disposed to cause harm or suffering; having an evil influence.
- effusively (adverb)
- In an excessively demonstrative or emotionally unrestrained manner.
- appurtenances (noun (plural))
- Accessories, supplementary items, or things associated with a particular activity or lifestyle.
- metes and bounds (noun phrase)
- The boundaries or limits of a piece of land, as established by physical features or measurements.
- myriad (adjective)
- A countless or extremely great number of things.
- censure (noun)
- Strong disapproval or criticism, especially formal or official.
- forsooth (adverb)
- Indeed; in truth. An archaic term used to express ironic surprise or emphasis.
- meritorious (adjective)
- Deserving reward, praise, or commendation.
- befuddled (verb (past tense))
- Confused or perplexed; unable to think clearly.
- taboo (noun)
- A social or religious custom prohibiting or forbidding discussion of a particular practice or association with a particular person, place, or thing.
- allegiance (noun)
- Loyalty or commitment to a superior, group, or cause.
- gossamer (adjective)
- Something extremely light, delicate, and insubstantial, like a fine cobweb.
- impinging (verb (present participle))
- Having an effect or impact on something; encroaching or intruding upon.
- condescension (noun)
- An attitude of patronizing superiority; behavior that implies one is graciously lowering oneself.
- covenant (noun)
- A formal, binding agreement or compact between two or more parties.