"The Crucible" Act 4 Vocab

presently

Soon; in a little while.

stench

A strong, unpleasant smell.

gaunt

Very thin, often because of illness or worry.

agape

Open wide, usually in surprise or wonder

strongbox

A secure box or chest used to keep money or valuables.

gibbet

A gallows or structure where criminals are hanged.

excommunication

Officially being kicked out of a church.

conciliatory

Trying to make peace or calm someone down.

beguile

To trick, charm, or deceive someone.

floundering

struggling awkwardly or clumsily, often because of confusion or difficulty.

reprieve

A temporary delay of punishment or relief from danger.

retaliation

Revenge or acting back against someone who harmed you.

adamant

Refusing to change one’s mind; very determined.

perfection

The state of being flawless or without mistakes.

cleave

To stick to or hold onto something closely.

disputation

A formal argument or debate.

sibilance

hissing or shushing sound, usually made by repeating “s,” “sh,” or similar sounds in speech or writing.

tantalized

Teased or tempted with something just out of reach.