Chapter Four — Vocabulary
My Father's Dragon by Ruth Stiles Gannett — key words and definitions
Vocabulary Words from Chapter Four
- wahoo (noun)
- A tropical shrub or small tree (Conocarpus erectus) found in coastal areas, also known as buttonwood.
- tangerines (noun)
- Small, sweet citrus fruits with loose, easily peeled skin, similar to oranges but smaller.
- knapsack (noun)
- A bag with shoulder straps carried on the back, used for carrying supplies during travel or hiking.
- muttering (verb)
- Speaking in a low, barely audible voice, often to oneself, usually expressing dissatisfaction or thinking aloud.
- clump (noun)
- A small, dense group of trees, bushes, or other plants growing closely together.
- extraordinary (adjective)
- Very unusual, remarkable, or beyond what is ordinary or expected.
- investigation (noun)
- A careful examination or inquiry to discover facts or gain information about something.
- invasion (noun)
- The act of entering a place or territory by force or without permission, often with hostile intent.
- solemn (adjective)
- Very serious and dignified in manner, tone, or appearance; not cheerful or smiling.
- trundled (verb)
- Moved slowly and heavily, often with a rolling or lumbering motion.
- retire (verb)
- To withdraw or retreat from a place or activity; to go away to a quieter or more private location.
- whereupon (conjunction)
- Immediately after which; at which point in a sequence of events.
- unreliable (adjective)
- Not able to be trusted or depended upon; inconsistent or inaccurate.
- boulders (noun)
- Large, rounded rocks, typically ones that have been worn smooth by erosion or water.
- tortoises (noun)
- Land-dwelling reptiles with high-domed shells that move slowly, distinct from water-dwelling turtles.