PART ONE: CHAPTER SIXTEEN - Letters — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from PART ONE: CHAPTER SIXTEEN - Letters

solace (noun)

Comfort or consolation in a time of distress or sadness.

perplexity (noun)

A state of being puzzled or confused; a complicated or difficult situation.

prudent (adjective)

Acting with careful good judgment; showing wise forethought.

despondent (adjective)

In low spirits from loss of hope or courage; deeply discouraged.

lamentation (noun)

A passionate expression of grief or sorrow.

forlornly (adverb)

In a pitifully sad and lonely manner.

infectiously (adverb)

In a manner likely to spread to or influence others, especially of laughter or enthusiasm.

commisary (noun)

A department responsible for supplying food and provisions (here used in Laurie's playful military language; standard spelling: commissary).

bulletin (noun)

A short official statement or report giving information about a matter of public interest.

dispatches (noun)

Official reports or messages, especially those sent quickly; often used in military or journalistic contexts.

pensively (adverb)

In a way that suggests deep, often melancholy thought.

tact (noun)

Skill and sensitivity in dealing with others or with difficult situations.

mandarin (noun)

Here, a Chinese porcelain figurine with a nodding head, used as a decorative object.

corroberate (verb)

Amy's misspelling of "corroborate," though she actually means "contradict" — to express the opposite opinion. Meg corrects her in the letter.

forehanded (adjective)

Prudent and prepared; thinking ahead and planning for future needs.

didoes (noun)

Pranks, antics, or capers; playful mischievous behavior.