ACT III - Scene IV — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from ACT III - Scene IV

arras (noun)

A large, richly woven tapestry hung on a wall, typically with a space behind it.

rood (noun)

A crucifix or cross, especially one placed at the entrance to the chancel of a church; used as a mild oath.

counterfeit (noun)

A likeness or portrait; an image made to represent something.

Hyperion (noun)

In Greek mythology, a Titan associated with the sun; used to suggest divine beauty and radiance.

batten (verb)

To feed greedily or gluttonously; to thrive or prosper at the expense of others.

apoplex'd (adjective)

Paralyzed or rendered insensible, as if struck by apoplexy (a stroke).

cozen'd (verb)

Deceived, cheated, or tricked through fraud or cunning.

sans (preposition)

Without; lacking.

mutine (verb)

To mutiny or rebel; to rise in revolt.

unction (noun)

An ointment or salve; figuratively, a soothing but false comfort or flattery.

pursy (adjective)

Fat, bloated, or short of breath; also suggesting moral corruption or excess.

enseamed (adjective)

Soaked in grease or fat; saturated with filth (from "seam," meaning animal fat).

tithe (noun)

A tenth part; used here to mean Claudius is not even a twentieth part of one-tenth the man King Hamlet was.

distemper (noun)

A disorder or disease of the mind or body; mental or emotional disturbance.

petar (noun)

A petard; a small bomb used to blow open gates or walls. The basis of the proverbial phrase "hoist with his own petard."

enginer (noun)

An engineer; one who designs or operates engines of war, including explosives.