ACT II - Prologue — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from ACT II - Prologue

gapes (verb)

To open the mouth wide, especially in eagerness, hunger, or desire; to yearn for something.

bewitched (adjective)

Enchanted or captivated, as if by a magical spell; irresistibly attracted.

complain (verb)

In Elizabethan English, to make a formal declaration of love or longing; to address a love plea to someone.

suppos'd (adjective)

Believed or assumed to be; regarded as (though the truth may be otherwise).

extremities (noun)

The most extreme or severe conditions; situations of great danger, hardship, or difficulty.

temp'ring (verb (present participle))

Moderating, softening, or bringing into balance; reducing the severity of something.

affection (noun)

In Elizabethan usage, a strong feeling or passion, particularly romantic love or desire — carrying more intensity than the modern sense of mild fondness.

belov'd (adjective)

Dearly loved; the object of deep affection or romantic devotion.

bait (noun)

Something used to lure or entice; here, a metaphor for the enticements of love that Juliet must take despite the danger.

vows (noun)

Solemn promises or pledges, especially declarations of love or fidelity between lovers.