Chapter 11 — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 11

reverie (noun)

A state of being pleasantly lost in one's thoughts; a daydream

idealization (noun)

The act of regarding or representing something as perfect or better than it actually is

platonic (adjective)

Of or relating to a close relationship that is intimate and affectionate but not sexual or romantic

flashback (noun)

A literary device in which the narrative shifts to an earlier time period to provide background or context

juxtaposition (noun)

The act of placing two things side by side for comparison or contrast, especially to highlight their differences

vulnerability (noun)

The quality or state of being exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed, either physically or emotionally

nostalgic (adjective)

Feeling a sentimental longing or wistful affection for the past

intimacy (noun)

Close familiarity or friendship; a warm, trusting connection between people

defense mechanism (noun phrase)

An unconscious psychological strategy used to protect oneself from anxiety, discomfort, or painful emotions

implicit (adjective)

Suggested or understood without being directly stated

stream of consciousness (noun phrase)

A narrative technique that presents a character's thoughts and feelings as they occur, in a continuous flow

motif (noun)

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

endearing (adjective)

Inspiring affection or warm feelings; charming

paralysis (noun)

A state of inability to act or function; emotional or psychological immobility

self-sabotage (noun)

Behavior that undermines one's own goals or well-being, often unconsciously