Chapter 1 Vocab (The Great Gatsby)

reserved

Formal or self-restrained in manner and relationship; avoiding familiarity or intimacy with others.

privy

Participating in the knowledge of something private or secret.

feign

To make believe; pretend.

levity

A manner lacking seriousness.

mar

To damage, ruin, or deface.

abortive

Partially or imperfectly developed; vain.

elation

A feeling or state of great joy or pride; exultant gladness; high spirits.

confer

To bestow upon as a gift, favor, or honor, or to consult together.

acute

Sharp; intense.

savor

To taste or smell.

reproach

An object of scorn or contempt.

wistfully/wistful

Full of wishful yearning or longing, often with sadness.

supercilious

Having or showing arrogant superiority and disdain of those viewed as unworthy.

effeminate

Having traits, tastes, or habits traditionally considered feminine.

pungent

Sharply affecting the organs of taste or smell.

buoy

To float or rise by reason of lightness.

divan

Sofa or couch, usually without arms or a back.

compulsion

A strong, usually irresistible impulse to perform an act, especially one that is irrational.