Chapter 10 — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 10

juxtaposition (noun)

The act of placing two or more things side by side, especially for the purpose of comparison or contrast

liminal (adjective)

Relating to a transitional or in-between state; occupying a position at a threshold between two conditions

condescension (noun)

An attitude of superiority; looking down on others as if they are beneath oneself

precocious (adjective)

Having developed certain abilities or qualities at an earlier age than is usual or expected

idealize (verb)

To regard or represent something as perfect or better than it really is

putrid (adjective)

Extremely unpleasant; of very poor quality; literally, decaying and foul-smelling

superficial (adjective)

Existing or occurring at the surface; lacking depth of character, understanding, or meaning

digressive (adjective)

Tending to depart from the main point or subject in speech or writing

debonair (adjective)

Confident, stylish, and charming in manner

alienation (noun)

The state of being isolated or estranged from a group, activity, or the values of one's society

endearing (adjective)

Inspiring affection or warmth; charming in a way that makes someone lovable

motif (noun)

A recurring element, image, or idea in a literary work that carries symbolic significance

solace (noun)

Comfort or consolation in a time of distress or sadness

irony (noun)

A situation or expression in which the intended meaning is the opposite of the literal or expected meaning

protagonist (noun)

The leading character or one of the major characters in a work of literature