Preface to the Second Edition — Vocabulary
The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne — key words and definitions
Vocabulary Words from Preface to the Second Edition
- unprecedented (adjective)
- Never done or known before; without previous example.
- quenched (verb)
- Extinguished or put out, especially by dousing with liquid.
- venerable (adjective)
- Commanding respect because of age, wisdom, or high status.
- malevolence (noun)
- The quality of wishing evil or harm to others; deep ill will.
- disapprobation (noun)
- Strong moral disapproval or condemnation.
- expunge (verb)
- To erase or remove completely, especially something considered objectionable.
- amiss (adjective)
- Wrong or inappropriate; not as it should be.
- reparation (noun)
- The act of making amends for a wrongdoing or offense.
- atrocities (noun)
- Extremely wicked or cruel acts; here used with deliberate exaggeration to describe the alleged offenses in the essay.
- adjudged (verb)
- Formally judged or declared, especially in a legal or public sense.
- enmity (noun)
- A state of deep-seated hostility or active opposition between individuals or groups.
- disclaims (verb)
- Formally denies or renounces any connection with or responsibility for.
- detriment (noun)
- Harm, damage, or disadvantage.
- availed (verb)
- Were of use or benefit; served a purpose.
- constrained (verb)
- Compelled or obliged to follow a particular course of action.