To Build a Fire Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from To Build a Fire

intangible (adjective)

Unable to be touched or grasped; not having a physical presence.

pall (noun)

A dark covering or atmosphere of gloom; literally, a cloth draped over a coffin.

undulations (noun)

Wavelike curves or movements; a smooth rising and falling shape.

chechaquo (noun)

A newcomer or tenderfoot in the Yukon or Alaska, especially one unfamiliar with frontier conditions.

conjectural (adjective)

Based on guesswork or speculation rather than proven facts.

speculatively (adverb)

In a way that involves forming theories or guesses without firm evidence; experimentally.

protruding (adjective)

Sticking out or projecting beyond the surrounding surface.

apprehension (noun)

Anxious fear or dread about something that may happen.

unwonted (adjective)

Unusual or out of the ordinary; not customary.

crystalled (adjective)

Formed into crystals; turned into a frozen, crystalline state.

conflagration (noun)

A large, destructive fire that causes extensive damage.

reiterated (verb)

Repeated or stated again, typically for emphasis or clarity.

imperative (adjective)

Absolutely necessary or required; of vital importance.

imperceptible (adjective)

So slight or subtle as to be impossible to perceive or detect.

capsized (verb)

Overturned or tipped over, causing the contents to spill; originally a nautical term for a boat flipping over.

flotsam (noun)

Debris or wreckage floating in water or washed ashore; by extension, discarded or accumulated material.

willy-nilly (adverb)

Whether one wants to or not; without choice or planning.

excruciating (adjective)

Intensely painful; causing great physical or mental suffering.

spasmodically (adverb)

In sudden, brief, involuntary bursts; occurring in spasms.

ensued (verb)

Happened afterward as a result or consequence.

apathetically (adverb)

In a manner showing no interest, enthusiasm, or concern; with indifference.

mincingly (adverb)

With small, delicate, cautious steps; in an exaggeratedly dainty manner.

peremptorily (adverb)

In a commanding, insistent way that expects immediate obedience and allows no refusal.

allegiance (noun)

Loyalty or devotion to a person, group, or cause.

throttle (verb)

To strangle or choke by compressing the throat.

poignant (adjective)

Evoking a keen sense of sadness, regret, or emotional sharpness.

chidden (verb)

Scolded or rebuked; the past participle of "chide."