XX. The Minister in a Maze — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from XX. The Minister in a Maze

vicissitude (noun)

A sudden or important change in circumstances or fortune, especially one that is unwelcome.

eligible (adjective)

More desirable or suitable; preferable (archaic usage meaning advantageous).

irrefragable (adjective)

Impossible to deny, refute, or disprove; indisputable.

uncouth (adjective)

Wild, rough, or unfamiliar in appearance; lacking refinement (used here in its older sense of strange or unknown).

importunately (adverb)

In a persistent, pressing, or troublesomely urgent manner.

mutability (noun)

The quality of being subject to change; liability to alter or be altered.

comport (verb)

To be in harmony or agreement with; to accord or be compatible.

obeisance (noun)

Deferential respect or homage; a gesture expressing deep respect, such as a bow.

petrified (adjective)

Rendered motionless or paralyzed with astonishment, horror, or fear.

impiety (noun)

Lack of reverence for God or sacred things; ungodliness; irreverence.

instilment (noun)

The act of gradually introducing an idea or feeling into someone's mind.

malignity (noun)

The quality of being deeply malicious or harmful; intense ill will.

gratuitous (adjective)

Without reason, cause, or justification; uncalled for; unwarranted.

potentate (noun)

A monarch or ruler, especially one with absolute power; here used as a euphemism for the Devil.

buckramed (adjective)

Stiffened or starched, as with buckram fabric; figuratively meaning rigid, formal, or unyielding.

diffused (verb)

Spread or scattered widely; dispersed throughout.

stupefied (verb)

Made unable to think or feel properly; rendered dull, numb, or insensible.

requite (verb)

To repay or make return for a service, kindness, or favor.