IV. The Interview — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from IV. The Interview

insubordination (noun)

Defiance of authority; refusal to obey rules or orders

sagamores (noun)

Native American chiefs or leaders, especially among the Algonquian-speaking peoples of New England

simples (noun)

Medicinal plants or herbs; basic natural remedies used in traditional healing

leech (noun)

An archaic term for a physician or healer, derived from Old English

Nepenthe (noun)

In Greek mythology, a drug or potion that banishes all sorrow and grief; figuratively, anything that induces forgetfulness of pain

Paracelsus (noun)

A Swiss-German Renaissance physician and alchemist (1493-1541) who pioneered the use of chemicals and minerals in medicine

requital (noun)

Something given in return or repayment; a reward or retaliation

expostulation (noun)

Earnest reasoning or protest against something; strong objection expressed through argument

peremptory (adjective)

Insisting on immediate attention or obedience; leaving no opportunity for refusal or delay

paramour (noun)

A lover, especially the illicit partner of a married person

ligaments (noun)

Bonds or ties connecting people or things; here used figuratively for the relationships binding Chillingworth to Hester, her lover, and Pearl

besmirches (verb)

Damages the reputation of; brings shame or disgrace upon

behoof (noun)

Advantage or benefit; personal interest or welfare

bale-fire (noun)

A large outdoor fire; a signal or funeral fire. Here used metaphorically for a blazing omen of destruction

demeanour (noun)

Outward behavior or manner; bearing or conduct in the presence of others