Chapter 10 β Vocabulary
Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison — key words and definitions
Vocabulary Words from Chapter 10
- optic (adjective)
- Relating to sight or vision; designed to affect or appeal to the eye.
- concentrate (noun)
- A substance that has been made denser or stronger by removing diluting agents; a thick liquid extract.
- translucent (adjective)
- Allowing light to pass through but not transparent; semi-clear or cloudy in appearance.
- indispensable (adjective)
- Absolutely necessary; too important to do without.
- territorial (adjective)
- Aggressively defending an area or domain against intruders; protective of oneβs space or position.
- paranoia (noun)
- Extreme, irrational distrust of others; a tendency to believe that others are conspiring against oneself.
- infiltrator (noun)
- A person who secretly enters or gains access to a group or organization in order to spy on or undermine it.
- vigilance (noun)
- The action or state of keeping careful watch for possible danger or difficulties; constant alertness.
- allegory (noun)
- A story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one.
- dispensable (adjective)
- Able to be replaced or done without; not essential.
- ferocity (noun)
- The state or quality of being savagely fierce, cruel, or violent.
- solidarity (noun)
- Unity or agreement of feeling or action among a group, especially as the basis for mutual support.
- microcosm (noun)
- A community, place, or situation regarded as encapsulating in miniature the characteristics of something much larger.
- edifice (noun)
- A large, imposing building; also used figuratively to describe a complex system of beliefs or institutions.
- precarious (adjective)
- Not securely held or in position; dependent on chance or uncertain circumstances; dangerously likely to fall or collapse.