Vocabulary from Susan Glaspell’s “Trifles”

15 vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts referenced in the lecture notes on the play “Trifles.”

Trifle

A thing of little value or importance; in the play, seemingly insignificant objects that reveal key evidence.

Indictment

A formal accusation of a serious crime; the legal charge Mrs. Wright may face.

Coroner

An official who investigates violent, sudden, or suspicious deaths; he examines Mr. Wright’s body.

Unobtrusive

Not attracting attention; the women’s quiet manner that lets them spot vital clues.

Gallantry

Polite attention or respect shown by men to women, masking the men’s dismissive attitude in the play.

Breadbox

A container for keeping bread fresh; one of the kitchen ‘trifles’ hiding important clues.

Party Telephone

A phone line shared by several households; its mention underscores the Wrights’ isolation.

Premeditated

Planned beforehand; investigators debate whether the murder was committed with forethought.

Fidgety

Restless or uneasy; the women’s nervous movements while discussing their discoveries.

Incisively

In a clear, direct, and sharp manner; how characters speak when cutting through trivialities.

Petticoat

A woman’s undergarment worn under a skirt or dress; highlights the domestic sphere of the play.

Queer

Strange or odd; used by characters to describe unusual findings in the house.

Disheveled

Untidy or disordered; describes Mrs. Wright’s appearance and household.

Tippet

A narrow, scarf-like garment worn over the shoulders; an everyday item mentioned in conversation.

Fiddle

To touch or handle something restlessly; the women’s fiddling leads to uncovering evidence.