Chapter 16 — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 16

scruples (noun)

Feelings of doubt or hesitation about the morality or propriety of an action.

countenance (noun)

A person's face or facial expression; outward appearance.

threadbare (adjective)

Worn thin from use; overused and lacking freshness or originality.

engrossing (adjective)

Absorbing all of someone's attention or interest; monopolizing.

gallantry (noun)

Polite attention or respect given to women; courteous and chivalrous behavior.

inducement (noun)

A thing that persuades or influences someone to do something; a motivating factor.

eligible (adjective)

Desirable or suitable; worthy of choice (archaic usage: fitting or appropriate).

presentation (noun)

The right to nominate a clergyman to a church living or benefice.

bequest (noun)

Something left to someone in a will; a legacy.

imprudence (noun)

Lack of care or forethought; rash or unwise behavior.

superintendence (noun)

The management or direction of an organization, activity, or property.

filial (adjective)

Of or due from a son or daughter; relating to the relationship of child to parent.

dictatorial (adjective)

Having or showing a tendency to tell people what to do in an autocratic way.

insolent (adjective)

Showing a rude and arrogant lack of respect.

retail (verb)

To recount or relate details of a story to others (archaic: to spread gossip).