VIII. The Elf-child and the Minister — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from VIII. The Elf-child and the Minister

expatiating (verb)

Speaking or writing at length or in detail about a subject.

ruff (noun)

A starched, pleated collar worn in the 16th and 17th centuries as a fashion accessory.

charger (noun)

A large, flat dish or platter, often used for serving; here referencing the biblical story of John the Baptist's head presented on a platter.

unfeignedly (adverb)

Sincerely; genuinely; without pretense or deception.

bedizen (verb)

To dress up or adorn in a gaudy, showy, or tasteless manner.

catechism (noun)

A series of fixed questions and answers used for religious instruction, especially in Christian doctrine.

perversity (noun)

A deliberate desire to behave unreasonably or in a way contrary to what is expected or desired.

indefeasible (adjective)

Not able to be lost, annulled, or overturned; absolute and unalterable.

requital (noun)

Something given in return, compensation, or recompense; repayment for a service, kindness, or injury.

retribution (noun)

Punishment inflicted as vengeance for a wrongdoing; divine or moral payback.

emaciated (adjective)

Abnormally thin or weak, especially as a result of illness or suffering.

unhallowed (adjective)

Not consecrated or blessed; sinful, profane, or wicked.

mountebank (noun)

A charlatan or fraud; historically, a person who sold quack medicines from a platform.

vehemence (noun)

Great intensity of feeling or forcefulness of expression; passionate conviction.

physiognomy (noun)

A person's facial features or expression, especially when regarded as indicative of character.

anon (adverb)

Soon; shortly; before long.