English short story vocab

Attaches

A person who is assigned to a specific task or role, often within a diplomatic or official capacity.

Spirited

full of energy, enthusiasm, and determination; lively and animated

Commotion

a state of confused and noisy disturbance; uproar or turmoil

Naturalist

a person who studies or is an expert in natural history, especially a biologist or ecologist

Contracting

the process of becoming smaller or drawing together; can also refer to the legal agreement to perform a service

Forfeit

to lose or give up something as a penalty for wrongdoing or failure to fulfill an obligation

Lather

a frothy mass of bubbles formed when soap is mixed with water; also refers to the act of creating this foam

Feigned

pretended or simulated; not genuine or real

Faction

a small, organized group within a larger one. often in disagreement or conflict with the larger group

Poised

having a composed and self-assured manner; balanced and ready for action

Rejuvenated

made to feel or look younger, fresher, or more lively; revitalized

Strop

a strip of leather used for sharpening razors or knives; also refers to the action of sharpening

Astray

away from the correct path or direction; lost or confused

Conscientious

guided by a sense of right and wrong; diligent and careful in one’s work or duties

Revolutionaries

individuals who advocate for or engage in political or social change, often through radical means

Ineradicable

impossible to eradicate or remove; permanent or unchangeable

Untrammeled

not restricted or hampered; free and unrestricted

Allegiance

loyalty or commitment to a group, cause, or individual

Procured

obtained or acquired through effort or action

Justice

the principle of fairness and moral rightness; the administration of law and order

Devious

showing a skillful use of underhanded tactics to achieve goals; deceitful

Genial

friendly and cheerful; warm and pleasant in manner

Aforementioned

mentioned previously; referred to earlier in the text

Dire

extremely serious or urgent; indicating a situation that is desperate or alarming

Imperious

assuming power or authority without justification; arrogant and domineering

Reveries

daydreams or a state of being pleasantly lost in one’s thoughts

Cask

a large container, typically made of wood, used for storing liquids such as wine or beer

Absconded

to leave hurriedly and secretly, typically to avoid detection or arrest

Precluded

prevented from happening; made impossible

Unredressed

not corrected or compensated; left unresolved

Retribution

punishment inflicted on someone as vengeance for a wrong or criminal act

Connoisseurship

the expertise or knowledge in a particular field, especially in the fine arts or food

Imposed

forced or set as a burden or requirement; established as a rule or law

Niche

a comfortable or suitable position in life or employment; also refers to a specialized segment of the market

Impunity

exemption from punishment or freedom from the injurious consequences of an action.

Surmounted

overcame a difficulty or obstacle; achieved victory over something

Immolation

the act of sacrificing or being sacrificed, often by fire; a ritualistic offering

Gesticulation

a dramatic gesture to emphasize or convey meaning; often involves hand movements