Chapter 4: Painted Faces and Long Hair — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from Chapter 4: Painted Faces and Long Hair

taboo (noun)

A social or cultural prohibition or restriction against certain behavior

mirage (noun)

An optical illusion caused by atmospheric conditions, especially the appearance of water on a hot surface

camouflage (noun)

The disguising of something by painting or covering it to blend with its surroundings

detritus (noun)

Waste or debris of any kind; organic matter produced by decomposition

opalescence (noun)

The quality of showing varying colors or a milky iridescence like an opal

swarthiness (noun)

The quality of having a dark complexion

malevolently (adverb)

In a manner that shows a wish to do evil or harm to others

compulsion (noun)

An irresistible urge to behave in a certain way, especially against conscious wishes

liberating (adjective)

Setting someone free from restrictions or constraints

sinewy (adjective)

Lean and muscular; tough and strong

gesticulate (verb)

To use gestures, especially dramatic ones, instead of or in addition to speaking

incantation (noun)

A series of words said as a magic spell or charm; a ritualistic chant

incredulous (adjective)

Unwilling or unable to believe something; showing disbelief

belligerence (noun)

Aggressive or warlike behavior; hostility