ACT I - Scene IV — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from ACT I - Scene IV

prolixity (noun)

Tedious length or wordiness in speech or writing

visor (noun)

A mask worn to conceal the face, especially at a masquerade

wantons (noun)

People who are playful, carefree, or unrestrained in behavior

burthen (noun)

Archaic form of "burden"; a heavy load or weight

atomies (noun)

Tiny creatures or atoms; extremely small beings

athwart (adverb)

Across; from side to side

benefice (noun)

A church position or living that provides income to a clergyman

ambuscadoes (noun)

Ambushes; surprise attacks from a concealed position

fadom (noun)

Archaic spelling of "fathom"; a unit of depth equal to six feet

misgives (verb)

Fills with doubt or apprehension; causes a feeling of foreboding

forfeit (noun)

Something lost or surrendered as a penalty; here, the loss of life

dun (adjective)

A dull grayish-brown color; also a pun on "done" meaning finished, and a reference to a parlor game

sir-reverence (noun)

A phrase used as an apology before mentioning something distasteful; a euphemism