The Great Gatsby Vocabulary List #1

Vocabulary terms, parts of speech, and exact definitions covering Chapter 1 of The Great Gatsby.

plagiaristic (adj)

Of or relating to duplicating another writer's language or ideas and then calling the work your own.

unaffected (adj)

(of a person) without artificiality or insincerity.

supercilious (adj)

Behaving or looking as though one thinks one is superior to others.

fractious (adj)

Irritable and quarrelsome.

conscientious (adj)

(of a person) wishing to do what is right, especially to do one's work or duty well and thoroughly.

incredulous (adj)

Indicating or showing unbelief.

imperative (adj)

Of vital importance; crucial.

hulking (adj)

(of a person or object) large, heavy, or clumsy.

complacency (n)

A feeling of smug or uncritical satisfaction with oneself or one's achievements.

extemporize (v)

Compose, perform, or produce something such as music or a speech without preparation.

devoid (adj)

Entirely lacking; being without a usual, typical, or expected attribute or accompaniment.

uninflected (adj)

Not varying in intonation or pitch.

peremptory (adj)

Insisting on immediate attention or obedience.

corroborate (v)

Confirm or give support to (a statement, theory, or finding).

egotism (n)

The practice of talking and thinking about oneself excessively because of an undue sense of self-importance.

intimation (n)

An indication or hint.

involuntary (adj)

Done without will or conscious control.