ACT II - Scene II — Vocabulary

Vocabulary Words from ACT II - Scene II

wherefore (adverb)

Why; for what reason. Commonly misunderstood as meaning "where."

envious (adjective)

Feeling or showing jealousy and resentment toward someone or something.

vestal (adjective)

Relating to the Roman goddess Vesta; chaste or virginal.

livery (noun)

A distinctive uniform or set of clothing; outward appearance or garb.

discourse (verb)

To communicate or speak; here used to mean "communicates" through expression.

bescreen’d (adjective)

Hidden or concealed behind a screen of darkness.

prorogued (adjective)

Postponed or deferred; extended to a later time.

counsel (noun)

Private thoughts, innermost reflections, or secret deliberations.

perjuries (noun)

False oaths; acts of swearing to something untrue.

perverse (adjective)

Deliberately contrary or obstinate; acting against what is expected.

fond (adjective)

In Elizabethan usage: foolishly tender or affectionate; excessively doting.

haviour (noun)

Behavior or conduct (archaic spelling of "behaviour").

inconstant (adjective)

Frequently changing; not remaining the same; fickle.

idolatry (noun)

Extreme admiration, love, or reverence for someone or something; worship of idols.

tassel-gentle (noun)

A male peregrine falcon, prized in falconry for its gentle temperament. Juliet uses it as a tender term for Romeo.

gyves (noun)

Shackles or fetters; restraints for the legs or ankles.

wanton (noun)

A playful or spoiled child; here, a young person indulging in amusement.

ghostly (adjective)

Spiritual; relating to the soul or to religious counsel. "Ghostly father" means spiritual father or confessor.