Friday Vocabulary

1. forsooth — [archaic] indeed, in fact

I am sore weary, forsooth, but what failing strength I yet have I pledge to thee and thy cause.

 

2. peduncle — [botany] flower stalk

A straight peduncle which goes along the entire inflorescence from base to tip is called the axis of inflorescence.

 

3. taffrail — [nautical] rail around top deck of a ship’s stern

We stood at the taffrail watching the seagulls following in our wake, knowing that they would soon fall away, just as the enchanting islands where so much had happened were falling away, shrinking soon to nothingness in the inexorable wake of time.

 

4. jabot — decorative ruffle at neckline descending down the front of the blouse or shirt

His teeth, beard, and jabot were stained by the coffee he drank boorishly and always, the cup only leaving his hand so he could write down some bon mot or a clever rhyme.

 

5. sultry — oppressively hot and humid, sweltering; arousing sexual desire

Emma gave me what I’m sure she imagined was a sultry glance over the rim of cocktail glass, but all I could think of was ‘Kilroy was here’ and I had difficulty not laughing.

 

6. jipijapa — Panama hat

But of course the best jipijapas are made in Ecuador, not Panama.

 

7. eterne — [archaic] eternal

But though the Deity is, His copies are not eterne.

 

8. triptyque — temporary customs permit for a motor vehicle which serves as a vehicular passport

Better be sure that your triptyque is up to date because we may need you to check out some of those Iberian wineries.

 

9. havelock — cap cover with flap hanging down to protect the neck

George reminded me of a Roundhead soldier with his close-fitting cap and black havelock draped behind his shaved head.

 

10. crore — [India] ten million (esp. of rupees), one hundred lakh

The top players on the national men’s team receive 5 crore each, which contrasts with the women’s team, who only get the same amount … for the entire squad.

 

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