Vocabulary List

Vocabulary List

Harmattan

  • Definition: A dry, dusty wind that blows from the Sahara across West Africa.

Stammer

  • Definition: To speak with involuntary pauses or repeated sounds.

Improvident

  • Definition: Not planning for the future; careless with money.

Gourds

  • Definition: Hard-shelled fruits often dried and used as containers or bowls.

Folly

  • Definition: Foolishness; a bad decision made without good sense.

Cowries

  • Definition: Small seashells once used as money in parts of Africa.

Fare

  • Definition: The cost of a journey OR the food someone eats.

Kola nut

  • Definition: A bitter nut used in West African culture, often for ceremonies or hospitality.

Plaintive

  • Definition: Sounding sad or mournful.

Mirth

  • Definition: Laughter or joy.

Plait

  • Definition: To braid or weave together (like hair or fibers).

Valediction

  • Definition: A farewell or goodbye.

Dynamism

  • Definition: Energy, force, or strong personality; being powerful and active.

Mortar

  • Definition: A bowl used for grinding or crushing food or substances.

Camwood

  • Definition: A reddish African wood used to make dye or cosmetics.

Pottage

  • Definition: A thick stew or soup.

Iroko tree

  • Definition: A large, durable hardwood tree common in West Africa.

Feigned

  • Definition: Pretended; faked.

Harbingers

  • Definition: Signs or people that signal something is coming.

Pestle

  • Definition: The tool used with a mortar to crush or grind.

Snuff

  • Definition: Powdered tobacco inhaled through the nose.

Amiss

  • Definition: Wrong or out of place.

Overtone

  • Definition: An underlying or hidden meaning or feeling.

Vague

  • Definition: Unclear or not specific.

Gnashed

  • Definition: Ground or clenched the teeth, often in anger.

Oracle

  • Definition: A priest or wise person who gives divine advice or predictions.

Imperious

  • Definition: Bossy, commanding, or arrogant.

Emissary

  • Definition: A messenger or representative sent on a mission.

Interim

  • Definition: A temporary time between two events; in the meantime.

Malevolent

  • Definition: Evil or having harmful intentions.