A Streetcar Named Desire Vocabulary Guide 2026

Vocabulary terms and definitions from Scenes 1-11 of A Streetcar Named Desire.

valise

A small traveling bag or suitcase.

reproach

To express disappointment in or displeasure with (a person) for conduct that is blameworthy or in need of amendment.

gander

A quick look or glance.

smoldering

Showing suppressed anger, hate, or jealousy.

Primitive

Belonging to an early stage of civilization, development, or evolution; denotes something simple, non-industrial, or unrefined.

Absconding

The act of departing suddenly and secretly, usually to avoid legal action, arrest, or the consequences of an illegal act (such as a crime or theft).

Indolently

To do something in a lazy, idle, or sluggish manner, often showing a strong dislike for effort or exertion.

Feigned

Simulated, pretended, or insincere; the act of faking a feeling, illness, or state of mind to deceive or create a false appearance.

narcotized

To be placed under the influence of a narcotic drug, rendering a person drowsy, sedated, or insensible; it can also mean to dull or deaden the senses and awareness.

Anthropological

Anything relating to the study of humanity, human evolution, societies, and cultures.

measly

Contemptibly small, meager, or inadequate in amount, size, or value.

swilling

The action of rapidly and greedily drinking large amounts of liquid (especially alcohol), or the act of rinsing and washing something with a heavy flow of water.

quaint

Attractive in an unusual or old-fashioned way.

vulgar

Lacking in taste, not polite, or crude and likely to offend.

Effeminate

A man or boy who exhibits behaviors, traits, or physical characteristics traditionally associated with women or girls, such as softness, delicacy, or a high-pitched voice.

Obliged

To be legally or morally bound to do something, or to feel a strong sense of gratitude and indebtedness for a favor.

Solemn

Something characterized by deep sincerity and seriousness.

Vicinity

The surrounding district or area of a specific place.

contemptible

Deserving of scorn, disdain or intense disapproval.

portieres

A heavy decorative curtain hung over a doorway.

Amiability

The quality of being friendly, pleasant, and easy to approach.

Reproachfully

Acting or speaking in a way that expresses disapproval, disappointment, or blame.

Uncouth

Ill-mannered, unrefined, or socially unacceptable.

Convulsive

Sudden, violent, or uncontrollable muscle contractions and spasms.

Malarkey

Nonsense, foolish talk, or writing that is meant to be deliberately misleading and insincere.

recriminations

Retaliatory accusations made in response to an initial charge, where two sides blame each other, often leading to bitter, counter productive arguments.

transitory

Lasting only for a short time; describes something temporary, fleeting, or bound to eventually pass and change.

cultivated

Refers to something refined or prepared through human effort, describing people with elegant tastes and extensive education, or land that has been tilled and planted.

Colloquy

A formal conversation, dialogue, or high-level conference.

Lurid

Something that is vivid and attention-grabbing in a shocking, sensational, or gruesome way.