ACT V - Scene II — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from ACT V - Scene II

bilboes (noun)

Iron bars with sliding shackles used to confine the feet of prisoners, especially on ships.

indiscretion (noun)

An impulsive or rash action taken without careful thought or planning.

larded (verb)

Embellished or supplemented with additional material; enriched.

ordinant (adjective)

Directing or governing events; acting as divine providence.

signet (noun)

A small seal, especially one set in a ring, used to authenticate documents.

insinuation (noun)

The act of worming one's way into a position by indirect or devious means.

waterfly (noun)

A contemptuous term for an insignificant, buzzing person who flits about without substance.

perdition (noun)

Loss or diminishment; in theology, eternal damnation.

semblable (noun)

A counterpart or equal; something that resembles or is similar to another.

umbrage (noun)

A shadow or faint representation; in modern usage, offense or resentment.

gaingiving (noun)

A feeling of misgiving or foreboding; an apprehensive premonition.

augury (noun)

The practice of interpreting omens or signs to predict the future; a portent or prophecy.

unbated (adjective)

Not blunted; having a sharp point, said of a sword not fitted with a protective button for fencing.

envenom (verb)

To coat or treat with poison or venom; to make poisonous.

union (noun)

A large, valuable pearl; here used by Claudius as a name for the poisoned pearl he drops into the wine.

carouse (verb)

To drink heartily or toast with enthusiasm; to drink to someone's health.

o'ercrows (verb)

Overcomes or triumphs over, as a victorious rooster (cock) crows over a defeated one.

occurrents (noun)

Events or occurrences; incidents that have taken place.

felicity (noun)

Supreme happiness or bliss; in this context, the peace and happiness of death.

quarry (noun)

A heap of dead bodies, especially of deer killed in a hunt; here applied to the dead royals.