Key Vocabulary and Themes from The Great Gatsby

Reproach

To express disapproval or disappointment.

Complacency

Self-satisfaction, especially when unaware of actual dangers or deficiencies.

Contemptuous

Expressing deep hatred or disapproval.

Supercilious

Behaving as if you are better than others.

Libel

A false statement that damages someone's reputation.

Peremptory

Commanding, not allowing refusal or contradiction.

Imitation

The act of copying someone or something.

Strident

Loud and harsh; grating.

Urbane

Sophisticated and polished in manner.

Deplorable

Shockingly bad; deserving strong condemnation.

Punctilious

Paying close attention to detail or proper behavior.

Defunct

No longer existing or working.

Nebulous

Vague, unclear, or ill-defined.

Pervade

Spread through or be present throughout.

Euphemism

A mild word substituted for a harsher one.

Dilatory

Slow to act or intended to delay.

Desolate

Empty and bleak.

Harrowing

Extremely distressing or painful.

Affront

A deliberate insult or offense.

Genial

Friendly and cheerful.

Intermittent

Not continuous; occurring in intervals.

Vicariously

Experiencing something through another's actions.