ACT I — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from ACT I

trifles (noun)

Things of very little importance or value; trivial matters not worth serious attention.

incompleted (adjective)

Not finished; left partially done. An archaic or dialectal form of "incomplete."

gallantry (noun)

Polite, courteous attention to women, often with an air of superficial charm or condescension.

abashed (adjective)

Embarrassed, ashamed, or made to feel self-conscious, especially in the presence of others.

red-up (verb)

A regional dialect term meaning to tidy up, clean, or put in order.

reproach (verb)

To express disapproval of or disappointment in someone; to blame or criticize.

tippet (noun)

A fur cape or scarf worn around the shoulders, popular in the early twentieth century.

piecing (verb)

The craft of sewing together small pieces of fabric to form a quilt top or patchwork design.

crafty (adjective)

Done with or showing skill in deception; cunning and careful in achieving a purpose.

rigging (verb)

Setting up or arranging something, especially in a makeshift or deliberate way.

covert (adjective)

Secret, hidden, or not openly acknowledged; done in a concealed manner.

facetiously (adverb)

In a joking or humorous manner, especially about something that should be taken seriously.

coroner (noun)

A public official who investigates the cause and circumstances of deaths, especially those that are sudden or suspicious.

homesteaded (verb)

Settled on and farmed public land, especially under the Homestead Act, which granted land to settlers who lived on and cultivated it.

shabby (adjective)

In poor condition from overuse or neglect; also used to describe someone who appears poorly dressed.