Joy Luck Club Vocabulary

Question 1

What is the definition of presumptuous?

Answer 1

Presumptuous (adjective): failing to observe the limits of what is permitted or appropriate.
EXAMPLE:
I hope I won’t be considered presumptuous if I offer some advice.

Question 2

What is the definition of askew?

Answer 2

Askew (adverb/adjective): not in a straight or level positions.
EXAMPLE (ADVERB):
the door was hanging askew on one twisted hinge
EXAMPLE (ADJECTIVE):
her hat was slightly askew

Question 3

What is the definition of pungent?

Answer 3

Pungent (adjective): having a sharply strong taste or smell.
EXAMPLE:
the pungent smell of frying onions

Question 4

What is the definition of chafe?

Answer 4

Chafe (verb): making a part of the body sore by rubbing against it.
EXAMPLE:
the collar chafed his neck

Question 5

What is the definition of acrid?

Answer 5

Acrid (adjective): having an irritating strong and unpleasant taste or smell.
EXAMPLE:
acrid fumes

Question 6

What is the definition of listless?

Answer 6

Listless (adjective): lacking energy or enthusiasm.
EXAMPLE:
bouts of listless despression

Question 7

What is recess?

Answer 7

Recess (noun): a small space created by building part of a wall further back from the rest.
EXAMPLE:
a table set into a recess

Question 8

What is posterity?

Answer 8

Posterity (noun): all future generations of people.
EXAMPLE:
the victims’ names are recorded for posterity

Question 9

What is decipher?

Answer 9

Decipher (verb): succeed in understanding or interpreting.
EXAMPLE:
a look she could not decipher came and went upon his face

Question 10

What is balm?

Answer 10

Balm (noun): a fragrant ointment or preparation used to heal or soothe the skin.
EXAMPLE:
when he kissed her, he tasted strawberry lip balm