The Crucible Vocabulary: Act II

condemn

To say someone is guilty, punish them, or say something is bad. Ex: The murderer was condemned to life in prison.

lofty

Very high, important, fancy, or acting superior. Ex: The movie had many lofty ideas, but I just wanted to laugh.

bewilder

To confuse someone. Ex: The twists and turns of the cave bewildered me.

ameliorate

To make something bad better. Ex: Tylenol will ameliorate a headache.

indignant

Angry or upset about something unfair. Ex: Jill was indignant when her brother got a car and she only got a card.

avid

Very eager or enthusiastic about something. Ex: I’m an avid moviegoer and spent all summer at the theater.

civil

Polite or relating to citizens/the state. Ex: They didn’t like each other but were civil when necessary.

base

Lacking morals, selfish, or worthless. Ex: The thief was so base that he sold the family’s dog.

deference

Respect for someone or following their wishes. Ex: In deference to my dad, I ate the terrible casserole.

pious

Very religious, holy, or pretending to be morally good. Ex: Mother Theresa was a pious person committed to her faith.

daft

Silly, stupid, or crazy. Ex: Henry’s plan to impress Maria by eating a beetle was daft.

gingerly

Carefully or cautiously. Ex: He placed the glass jar gingerly on the step.