Chapter 3 — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 3

terrific

Used by Holden as an intensifier meaning extraordinary or extreme, rather than its standard meaning of wonderful.

phony

A person or behavior that is insincere, pretentious, or fake; Holden's most frequently used term of contempt.

conceited

Excessively proud of oneself; having an inflated sense of one's own attractiveness or abilities.

madman

A person who behaves wildly or recklessly; used by Holden as casual slang to describe extreme behavior.

ostracize

To exclude someone from a group or from social acceptance.

digression

A temporary departure from the main subject in speech or writing; a side topic.

hygiene

Practices and conditions that promote health and cleanliness, especially personal grooming habits.

composition

A short essay or piece of writing assigned as schoolwork.

dorm

Short for dormitory; a residential building at a school or college where students live.

tactless

Lacking sensitivity or skill in dealing with others; saying or doing things that are socially inappropriate.

slob

A person who is habitually messy, untidy, or careless about personal appearance and surroundings.

razor

A sharp-bladed instrument used for shaving hair from the face or body.

memoir

A historical account or biography written from personal knowledge or special sources; a form of autobiographical writing.

paradox

A statement or situation that seems contradictory but may reveal a deeper truth.

alumnus

A former student or graduate of a particular school, college, or university.