The Great Gatsby: Vocabulary Reference Guide (Chapters 1–6)

A complete vocabulary reference list covering essential words, parts of speech, and definitions from Chapters 1 through 6 of The Great Gatsby.

feigned

Pretended or gave a false appearance.

conscientious

Wishing to do what is right; meticulous and careful.

contemptuously

Scornfully; expressing deep hatred, disdain, or disapproval.

peremptorily

In a commanding, bossy, or urgent manner leaving no room for refusal.

immoderately

Excessively; beyond reasonable limits.

disdain

The feeling that someone or something is unworthy of respect or consideration.

gaudy

Extravagantly bright or showy, typically so as to be tasteless.

innuendo

An allusive or indirect remark or hint, typically a suggestive or disparaging one.

prodigality

Wasteful extravagance or lavish spending.

vehemently

In a forceful, passionate, or intense manner.

vacuous

Having or showing a lack of thought or intelligence; mindless or empty.

florid

Having a reddish/flushed complexion, or an excessively elaborate/ornate style.

corpulent

Fat; having a large or bulky body.

indignant

Feeling or showing anger/annoyance at what is perceived as unfair treatment.

malevolence

The state or condition of wishing evil or harm to others.

punctilious

Showing great attention to detail or correct behavior; precise adherence to rules/codes.

disconcerting

Causing one to feel unsettled or confused.

retribution

Punishment inflicted on someone as vengeance for a wrong or criminal act.

denizen

An inhabitant or occupant of a particular place; one who frequents a place.

reproachfully

In a manner expressing disappointment, blame, or disapproval.

defunct

No longer living, existing, or functioning.

distraught

Deeply upset, agitated, and worried.

vestige

A trace, mark, or visible sign left by something vanished or lost.

nebulous

In the form of a cloud or haze; indistinct, vague, or unclear.

laudable

Deserving praise and commendation; worthy of praise.

insidious

Treacherous; awaiting a chance to entrap; harmful in a gradual, subtle, or enticing way.

ineffable

Too great, extreme, or sacred to be expressed or described in words.

ingratiate

To gain favor or acceptance by deliberate effort (e.g., flattery).

euphemism

The substitution of a mild/agreeable term for one that is harsh or unpleasant.

obtrusive

Undesirably prominent, noticeable, or intrusive.