Download “Bartleby” Vocabulary

“Bartleby” Vocabulary
Avocation: n. a person's regular occupation, calling, or vocation.
Imprimis: adverb, in the first place; above all
Prudence: n. caution with regard to practical matters; discretion
Eccentricity: n. an oddity or peculiarity, as of conduct: an interesting man, known for his eccentricities.
Remonstrate: v. to say or plead in protest, objection, or disapproval
Pernicious: adjective causing insidious harm or ruin; ruinous; injurious; hurtful: pernicious teachings; a
pernicious lie.
Insolent: adjective, boldly rude or disrespectful; contemptuously impertinent
Vintner: n. a person who makes wine or sells wines.
Superfluous: adj. being more than is sufficient or required; excessive
Consternation: n. a sudden, alarming amazement or dread that results in utter confusion; dismay
Dyspeptic: adj. gloomy, pessimistic, and irritable
Malediction: n. a curse; utterance of a curse
Pugilistic: adj. of or relating to fighting (with fists)
Decorous: adj. characterized by dignified propriety in conduct, manners, appearance, character, etc.
Marius: Roman General
Cicero: An orator, writer, and statesman of ancient Rome. His many speeches to the Roman Senate are
famous for their rhetorical techniques and their ornate style.
Efficacy: n. capacity for producing a desired result or effect; effectiveness: a remedy of great efficacy
Incubus: n. an imaginary demon or evil spirit supposed to descend upon sleeping persons, esp. one fabled
to have sexual intercourse with women during their sleep; a nightmare; An oppressive or nightmarish
burden
Acquiesce: v. to assent tacitly; submit or comply silently or without protest; agree; consent