Scarlet Letter Vocab

Expostulate

to reason with someone in an attempt to persuade them away from a decision or action

Contumely

harsh, insulting speech meant to shame or humiliate someone publicly

Flagrant

shockingly obvious or offensive, especially in a way that shows disregard for rules or morals

Remonstrance

a strong, forceful expression of protest or objection

Indubitably

in a way that leaves no room for doubt; unquestionably

Prolific

producing large amounts of work, results, or offspring; highly productive

Anathema

something or someone intensely disliked or rejected on moral or personal grounds

Imperious

acting with a commanding, authoritative attitude, expecting obedience

Extant

still in existence, surviving despite time or circumstances

Antipathy

a deep, settled feeling of dislike or hostility

Ethereal

light, delicate, or otherworldly in a way that seems almost unreal

Scurrilous

using or containing coarse, abusive language meant to damage someone’s reputation

Portent

a sign or warning that something significant, often negative, is about to happen

Despotic

exercising power in a harsh, absolute, or oppressive way

Deleterious

causing harm or damage, especially in a subtle or long-term way

Admonish

to warn, advise, or correct someone firmly but not harshly

Vilify

to speak about someone in a way that unfairly damages their reputation

Visage

a person’s face or expression, especially as it reveals emotion or character

Tremulous

shaking or trembling slightly, often from nervousness or emotion

Sagacity

keen judgment or wisdom that allows someone to make sound decisions