Chapter XXXII. Coronation Day. — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter XXXII. Coronation Day.

transept (noun)

The part of a cruciform church that crosses at right angles to the nave, forming the arms of the cross shape.

peeress (noun)

A woman who holds a title of nobility in her own right or as the wife of a peer.

coronet (noun)

A small crown worn by nobles below the rank of sovereign, often at coronation ceremonies.

dowager (noun)

A widow holding property or a title from her deceased husband, especially an elderly woman of high social standing.

plebeian (adjective)

Of or belonging to the common people; lacking in refinement or social standing.

comported (verb)

Was in keeping with; matched or suited.

fealty (noun)

A feudal oath of loyalty and allegiance sworn by a vassal to a lord or sovereign.

mendicant (noun)

A person who lives by begging; a beggar.

obeisance (noun)

A gesture of respect or reverence, such as a bow or curtsy.

apparition (noun)

A ghostlike or startling figure that appears suddenly and unexpectedly.

despondency (noun)

A state of low spirits caused by loss of hope or courage; dejection.

vagabond (noun)

A person who wanders from place to place without a settled home; used here as a term of contempt.

varlet (noun)

An archaic term for a rascal, rogue, or person of low social standing.

brazen (adjective)

Made of brass; here used literally to describe a brass-headed nail.

corrugated (adjective)

Wrinkled or furrowed, especially from concentration or worry.

suffuses (verb)

Gradually spreads through or over something, especially light or color.