Vocabulary from A Separate Peace

Flashcards for vocabulary from the novel 'A Separate Peace' by John Knowles.

Amble(d)

To go at a slow, easy pace; to saunter.

Amiably

In a friendly and pleasant manner.

Austerity

Severe quality; severity of manner, life, etc.; harshness; sternness.

Automaton

A mechanical figure or contrivance constructed to act as if by its own motive power; robot.

Consternation

A sudden, alarming amazement or dread that results in utter confusion; dismay.

Contretemps

An inopportune occurrence; an embarrassing mischance.

Effulgence

A brilliant radiance; a shining forth.

Formidable

Causing fear, apprehension, or dread; frightful.

Furlough

(Military) A vacation or leave of absence granted to an enlisted person; a temporary layoff.

Infirmary

A place for the care of the infirm, sick, or injured; hospital or facility serving as a hospital.

Inured

Hardened by frequent exposure, especially to something bad; accustomed.

Modify

To change somewhat the form or qualities of; alter partially; amend.

Mordantly

Biting or caustic in thought, manner, or style; sarcastically; sharply or bitterly harsh.

Multifarious(ly)

Having great variety; numerous and diverse; varied; heterogeneous.

Obstinate

Firmly or stubbornly adhering to one's purpose, opinion, etc.; not yielding to argument, persuasion, or entreaty.

Precarious

Dependent on circumstances beyond one's control; uncertain; dangerous; unstable; insecure; unsure.

Sinecure

An office or position requiring little or no work, especially one yielding profitable returns.

Stupefaction

Overwhelming amazement; the state of being stunned; stupor.

Undulation

A wavelike motion; one of a series of wavelike bends, curves, or elevations.

Vagary

An unpredictable or erratic action, occurrence, course, or whimsical notion.