The War Prayer Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from The War Prayer

supplication (noun)

A humble, earnest prayer or plea to someone in authority.

benignant (adjective)

Kind and gracious; showing gentle goodwill.

invocation (noun)

A solemn calling upon God or a higher power for aid, protection, or inspiration.

fervid (adjective)

Intensely passionate or enthusiastic; burning with zeal.

oratory (noun)

The art of public speaking, especially in a formal, persuasive, or impassioned manner.

ordainest (verb)

Archaic form of "ordain"; to decree or command by divine will.

clarion (noun)

A shrill, clear trumpet call; used figuratively for any loud, clear sound or rallying cry.

onset (noun)

The beginning of a military attack or assault; a charge.

imperishable (adjective)

Enduring forever; incapable of being destroyed or forgotten.

ghastliness (noun)

The quality of being shockingly frightful or dreadful in appearance.

cataract (noun)

A large waterfall; here used figuratively to describe a cascade of white hair flowing down.

smote (verb)

Past tense of smite; to strike with a heavy blow. Figuratively, to affect suddenly and powerfully.

import (noun)

The meaning or significance of something; its full implication.

beseech (verb)

To implore urgently or desperately; to beg.

travail (noun)

Painful or laborious effort; intense suffering or hardship.

contrite (adjective)

Feeling or expressing deep regret and sorrow for wrongdoing; penitent.

unavailing (adjective)

Achieving nothing; futile; producing no useful result.

protract (verb)

To extend or prolong in duration; to draw out over time.