The Crucible Vocab

The Crucible Vocabulary Words

crucible

literally: a ceramic or metal container in which metals or other substances can be melted at high temperatures in order to purify them

metaphorically: a situation of severe trial, or in which different elements interact or figurative “heat” is used, leading to the creation of something new, a change, or a purification

notorious

famous of well-known for some bad quality or deed, infamous

prodigious

remarkable or impressively great in extent, size, or degree.

fathom

to understand (a difficult problem or an enigmatic person) after much thought; unit of measurement used to measure the depth of the ocean.

defamation

the action of damaging the good reputation of someone with words; slander or libel.

licentious

unprincipled and lustful in sexual matters (adj)

evade

to escape or avoid especially by cleverness or trickery

pious

very religious or devout; sometimes can imply making a hypocritical display of virtue, self-righteous, sanctimonious.

wily

skilled at gaining an advantage, especially deceitfully; cunning

tainted

contaminated or polluted; left in an unclean or damaged state.

lechery

excessive or offensive sexual desire; lustfulness; immorality

pretense

an attempt to make something that is not the case appear true.

abundant

existing or available in large quantities; plentiful, bountiful.

daft

silly or foolish; absurd or crazy

slovenly

messy, disheveled and dirty (especially when describing a person’s appearance); implies laziness or carelessness for one’s appearance.

quail

to show fear or apprehension; to waver or cower

gaunt

(of a person) lean and haggard, especially because of suffering, hunger or age

beguile

to charm or enchant (someone), often in a deceptive way

adamant

refusing to be persuaded or to change one’s mind; uncompromising, inflexible

reprieve

cancelation or postponement of the punishment of someone, especially someone condemned to death.