Maharashtra State Board Class 9 English Word Meanings

by Jatinder Kaur | Mar 3, 2025 | General | 0 comments

Maharashtra State Board Class 9 English Meaning of Difficult Words from All Chapters (Prose and Poetry) of Kumarbharati Book

Maharashtra State Board Class 9 English Word Meanings – Here, the difficult words and their meanings of all the chapters of Maharashtra State Board Class 9 English Kumarbharati Book have been compiled for the convenience of the students. This is an exhaustive list of the words and meanings of all the Prose and Poetry from the Kumarbharati Book of Maharashtra State Board Class 9 English. The difficult word meanings have been explained lucidly so that every student can understand them.

Unit 1
Chapter 1.1 Life
Chapter 1.2 A Synopsis-The Swiss Family Robinson
Chapter 1.3 Have you ever seen … ?
Chapter 1.5 The Necklace

Unit 2
Chapter 2.2 A True Story of Sea Turtles
Chapter 2.3 Somebody’s Mother
Chapter 2.4 The Fall of Troy
Chapter 2.5 Autumn
Chapter 2.6 The Past in the Present

Unit 3
Chapter 3.1 Silver
Chapter 3.2 Reading Works of Art
Chapter 3.3 The Road Not Taken
Chapter 3.4 How the First Letter was Written

Unit 4
Chapter 4.1 Please Listen!
Chapter 4.2 The Storyteller
Chapter 4.3 Intellectual Rubbish
Chapter 4.4 My Financial Career
Chapter 4.5 Tansen

Chapter 1.1 – Life

Sages: Wise people, experts or scholars.
Oft: Often, frequently.
Foretells: Predicts, indicates beforehand.
Gloom: Darkness, sadness, or depression.
Transient: Lasting only for a short time; temporary.
Lament: To express deep sorrow or regret for something.
Rapidly: quickly
Merrily: joyfully
Gratefully: thankfully, appreciatively
Cheerily: happily
Sorrow: sadness
O’er: over
Sway: influence, control
Elastic: Able to resume its normal shape quickly after being stretched or compressed.
Unconquered: Not defeated or overcome.
Buoyant: Able to float or rise to the surface of a liquid.
Golden: Made of or resembling gold; precious or valuable.
Manfully: In a brave and determined manner, like a man.
Fearlessly: Without fear; boldly.
Bear: To endure or tolerate something difficult.
Gloriously: In a magnificent or triumphant way.
Victoriously: Having won a victory; triumphantly.
Quell: To suppress or subdue something.
Despair: A feeling of hopelessness and loss of confidence.

Related:

Chapter 1.2 – A Synopsis- The Swiss Family Robinson

Novel: a long story about imaginary people and events
Graphic novels: stories told in pictures with text
Clergyman: A person ordained for religious service, especially a Christian priest.
Self-reliance: The ability to depend on one’s own efforts and abilities.
Determination: Firmness of purpose; resolve.
Co-operation: Working together to achieve a common goal.
Prudent: Acting with or showing care and thought for the future.
Husbandry: The practice of agriculture and animal husbandry.
Natural sciences: The study of the physical world and its phenomena.
Elements: parts or components
Stretch: to extend or expand beyond normal limits
Extent: degree or range
Fiction: imagined stories, not based on fact
Fact file: a collection of information about a particular subject
Synopsis: a summary or brief overview
Outline: a general plan or summary
Evacuated: left a dangerous place
Weathered: endured or survived
Tropical: relating to the hot, wet parts of the world
Desert island: an island with no people living on it
Reef: a long, narrow strip of land or rock in the sea
Vessel: a large ship or boat
Ammunition: supplies of bullets, bombs, etc.
Livestock: animals kept on a farm
Powder: gunpowder
Carpentry: the skill of making things out of wood
Disassembled: taken apart
Pinnace: a small boat
Kegs: Small barrels used for holding liquids.
Bow: A curved part of something. Here, it’s the curved front part of the raft they built.
Grove: A small group of trees growing close together.
Diameter: the length of a straight line passing through the center of a circle or sphere
Extended: stretched out, reached out
Platforms: flat, raised surfaces
Geometry: the branch of mathematics concerned with the properties and relations of points, lines, surfaces, solids, and higher-dimensional spaces
Rods: long, thin pieces of wood or metal
Knotted: Tied together in a series of loops.
Intervals: Spaces of time or distance between things.
Bamboo: A tall, hollow, woody grass.
Driftwood: Wood washed ashore by the sea.
Sledge: A vehicle without wheels, used for carrying heavy loads.
Runners: The parts of a sledge that slide over the ground.
Tending: taking care of, looking after, nurturing.
Exotic: unusual, strange, foreign
Exuding: releasing, giving off, emitting
Elements: weather conditions, such as wind, rain, and cold
Abutting: next to or bordering on
Crosscurrents: currents of air moving in different directions
Oppressive: uncomfortable and unpleasant
Oppressive: heavy or unpleasant to bear; suffocating
Remedy: a solution to a problem
Rigged up: quickly put together or assembled
Secure: fasten firmly in position
Rescued: saved from danger or harm
Cultivated: grown or raised (plants) for food
Trampled: crushed or damaged by people or animals walking on it
Ruined: destroyed or damaged badly
Footmarks: marks made by a person’s or animal’s foot
Massive: extremely large and heavy
Herd: a group of animals that live together
Stilt: a long pole or post used to support something above the ground
New Switzerland: A new name given to the island, similar to their home country.
Albatross: A large seabird with very long wings.
Stranded: Left alone and helpless in a place from which it is difficult to escape.
Vicinity: The area immediately surrounding a place.
Despair: A complete loss or absence of hope.
Threatening: Showing an intention to cause harm or danger.
Laid anchor: dropped the anchor of the ship to hold it in place.
Encampment: a temporary camp or settlement.
Spyglass: a small telescope used for looking at distant objects.
Savages: uncivilized or primitive people.
Vessel: A ship or large boat.
Prosperity: Success in material terms; wealth.
Island: a piece of land surrounded by water
Respond: to answer or reply
Adventures: exciting experiences
Journals: books in which you write down your thoughts and experiences
Captain: the leader of a ship
Departed: left

Chapter 1.3 – Have you ever seen…?

Sheet: A large piece of thin cloth, typically used for bedding.
River bed: The bottom of a river.
Hammer’s head: The part of a hammer where the metal striking face is attached.
Mountain: A large natural elevation of the earth’s surface.
Toes: The end parts of a foot.
Hose: A flexible pipe for conveying water or other fluids.
Wink: to close and open one eye quickly as a signal
Ribs: the long, thin pieces of material that support something, like an umbrella
Trunk: the main stem of a tree
Teeth: the pointed parts of a rake used for gathering leaves or loosening soil.
Plot: a small piece of land for gardening.
Birch: a type of tree.

Chapter 1.5 – The Necklace

PART-I

Aristocrat: higher social class
Luxuries: Things that are considered comfortable or enjoyable but not essential.
Shabby: Worn, ragged, or in poor condition.
Poorly furnished: Furnished with low-quality or unattractive items.
Resentful: Feeling bitter or angry towards someone or something.
Palatial mansion: A large and impressive house, often with many rooms and luxurious features.
Envied: Desired or coveted by others.
Convent: A religious house for women.
Despair: A feeling of hopelessness and despair.
Misery: Great suffering or unhappiness.
Triumph: a feeling of great satisfaction or achievement.
Envelope: a sealed paper container for holding letters or documents.
Tore open: Ripped open forcefully
Drew out: Pulled out
Delighted: Very pleased or happy.
Resentfully: In a way that shows anger or annoyance.
Muttered: Said something quietly and indistinctly.
Stammered: Spoke with difficulty, often repeating words or sounds.
Stunned: Shocked or amazed, often to the point of being unable to speak or act.
Distressed: Upset, worried, or troubled.
Stuttered: Spoke with difficulty, often repeating sounds or words.
Computing: Calculating or estimating.
Hesitantly: In a hesitant or uncertain manner.
Refusal: The act of refusing or declining something.
Francs: This is the former currency of France. It was replaced by the euro in 2002.
Pale: lacking color, especially in the face; appearing sickly or exhausted.
Nanterre: a suburb of Paris, France.
Restless: Unable to relax or be still, often due to anxiety or boredom
Anxious: Feeling worried or uneasy about something that might happen.
Strange: unusual
Distress: A state of extreme anxiety, sorrow, or suffering.
Tried on: To put on clothing or jewelry to see if it fits or looks good.
Ecstasy: a state of overwhelming happiness or excitement
Fastened: secured or attached firmly
Rapturously: With great joy, excitement, or delight.
Elegant: graceful and refined in appearance or manner
Gracious: courteous and kind
Joy: great happiness and pleasure
Passion: strong and intense emotion or enthusiasm
Triumph: a great victory or success
Rue des Martyrs: This is a street in Paris, France.
Glory: great beauty or magnificence
Panic-stricken: feeling extreme fear or alarm
Distraught: deeply upset and distressed
Uttered: to say something aloud

PART-II

Folds: creases or bends in fabric.
Cloak: A loose outer garment, often with a hood.
Had it on: This phrase means “were wearing it.”
Cab: A small motor vehicle, especially one for hire.
Stunned : Shocked or overwhelmed, often to the point of being unable to speak or act.
Route: A planned way of getting from one place to another.
Blank: empty, without thought or feeling.
Glimmer of hope: This means the smallest or weakest sign or possibility of something good or positive happening.
Despair: A feeling of hopelessness or dejection.
Frightful: Causing great fear or alarm.
Disaster: A sudden, calamitous event, typically resulting in great loss or damage.
Hollow: Empty or lacking substance.
Pale: Having a light or whitish color.
Clasp: A fastener used to join two or more things.
Mended: Repaired or fixed.
Aged: This means that Loisel looked older than he actually was, probably due to stress and worry.
Anguish: Severe mental or physical pain.
Palais Royal: This is a famous palace and square located in Paris, France.
Jeweller: A person who deals in jewelry.
Notes: In this context, likely referring to promissory notes, which are written promises to pay a specific sum of money on a specific date.
Ruinous agreements: Agreements that are financially damaging or destructive.
Coldly: in a manner that lacks warmth or friendliness.
Garret: A small, poorly lit room under a roof, often used as a bedroom.
Heroically: In a brave, courageous, or noble way.
Drudgery: Hard, monotonous, and unpleasant work.
Odious: Extremely unpleasant or hateful.
Sou: A French unit of currency, roughly equivalent to a halfpenny.
Manuscript: Manuscript refers to a handwritten or typed document, especially one that is considered to be the original or a very early copy of a work. It can be a book, article, letter, or any other form of written text.
Sou: A French unit of currency, roughly equivalent to a halfpenny.
Brooded: Thought about something deeply and often sadly.
Fickle: Likely to change one’s mind or feelings suddenly.
Champs Élysées: A famous avenue in Paris, France, known for its elegant shops, theaters, and cafes.
Familiarly: In a way that suggests a close or friendly relationship.
Stammered: Spoke with difficulty, often repeating sounds or words.
Misery: Great suffering or unhappiness.
Glad: happy
Imitation: A copy of something that is intended to be less valuable or authentic.

Chapter 2.2 – A True Story of Sea Turtles

Surveying: Looking at or examining something carefully, often to gather information.
White-bellied sea-eagles: A type of eagle with a white underside.
Roamed: Wandered or traveled without a fixed destination.
Shallow pits: Small, not very deep holes.
Egg shells: The hard outer covering of an egg.
Enquiries: Questions or requests for information.
Turtle eggs: Eggs laid by turtles.
Unusual occurrence: Something that is not normal or expected.
Sealed to the public: Closed off to the public, preventing access.
Smuggling: Bringing things into or out of a country illegally.
Silver bricks: Bars or blocks of silver.
Shocked to the core: Very surprised and upset.
Coastline: The area where land meets the sea.
Combing: Searching carefully and thoroughly.
Trail: A mark or series of marks left behind by something that has passed.
Nest: A place built or used by an animal for laying eggs or raising young.
Dig up: To remove something from the ground by digging.
Steal: To take something that belongs to someone else without permission.
Spotted: Seen or noticed.
Laying: The process of producing eggs.
Ruthless: Without mercy or pity; cruel.
Schedule I: A list of highly protected species in the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act.
Hush-hush: Secret or confidential; done in a quiet and private manner.
Distressing: Causing great worry or unhappiness.
Undertake: To begin or start a task or project.
Conservation: The protection and preservation of the natural environment.
Undertook: Started or began.
Campaign: A planned activity to achieve a particular goal.
Cooperation: Working together.
Appointed: Assigned or chosen.
Nest: A place where an animal lays its eggs.
Bury: Put something underground.
Wire fencing: A fence made of wire.
Hatched: Came out of an egg.
Spectacle: A striking or unusual sight.
Hatchlings: Baby turtles that have recently emerged from their eggs.
Silver sands: Sands that appear silvery or pale gray, often due to their fine texture or the angle of sunlight.
Boundless sea: A vast ocean without any visible limits.
Ovation: A demonstration of enthusiastic approval, especially by applause.
Olive Ridley turtles: A type of sea turtle with an olive-green shell.
Hawksbills: A type of sea turtle with a distinctive, overlapping pattern on its shell.
maturity: The state of being fully grown or developed.
Innumerable: Countless, many.
Hatchlings: Baby turtles that have just emerged from their eggs.
Survival rate: The percentage of individuals that survive.
Marine ecology: The study of the relationships between organisms and their environment in the sea.
Vital: Extremely important, necessary.
Coastline: The land along the edge of a sea or ocean.
Comprehensive: Including everything.
Spread the message: To make people aware of something.
Novel concept: A new or original idea.
Spectacle: A striking or unusual sight.
Hatchlings: Baby animals that have recently emerged from eggs.
Konkan: A coastal region in western India.
Slightest harm: The smallest amount of damage.
Homestay: A type of accommodation where tourists stay in a private home.
Utilised: Used for a particular purpose.
Conservation: The protection and preservation of natural resources.
Livelihood: A person’s means of earning a living.
Sustainable: This means something that can continue for a long time without harming the environment or using up resources too quickly.
Entrusted: To give someone the responsibility or duty to do something.

Chapter 2.3 – Somebody’s Mother

Ragged: Worn, torn, or tattered clothing
Bent: Curved or stooped, often due to age or weakness
Chill: A feeling of coldness, often due to the weather
Recent: Having happened or existed a short time ago
Snow: Frozen water that falls from the sky as flakes
Slow: Moving or acting at a low speed
Jostled: Pushed or bumped against roughly.
Throng: A large crowd of people.
Unheeding: Paying no attention to.
Glance: A quick look.
Anxious: Feeling worried or uneasy.
Down the street: Along the street.
Glad: Happy and pleased.
School let out: The time when school ends for the day.
Flock: A group of sheep or birds.
Hailing: Greeting or welcoming enthusiastically.
Piled: Arranged in a stack.
Afraid to stir: Scared to move
Lest the carriage wheels or the horses’ feet: This phrase expresses fear that the wheels or hooves of the carriage might crush or step on her.
Merry troop: A cheerful group of people
Gayest boy: The happiest and most cheerful boy
Paused: Stopped briefly
Whispered low: Spoke quietly
Aged: old, especially in a way that suggests wisdom or experience
Trembling: shaking slightly, especially due to cold, fear, or weakness
Guided: led or directed someone or something
Content: satisfied and happy
Lend: To give something to someone, expecting to get it back later.
Dear: Loved or valued.
Bowed: bent one’s head or body as a gesture of respect, submission, or grief.
Noble: having or showing qualities of high moral character, such as courage, generosity, and honesty.

Chapter 2.4 – The Fall of Troy

Part I

Epics: Long poems that tell stories of heroic deeds or historical events.
Deeds: Actions or achievements, especially heroic ones.
National hero: A person who is admired and respected by a nation for their achievements or bravery.
National war: A war fought between nations.
Composed: Created or written.
Helen of Troy: The most beautiful woman in the world, whose abduction by Paris sparked the Trojan War.
Achilles: A Greek warrior and hero in the Iliad, known for his strength and invulnerability.
Wandered: Moved around without a fixed destination.
Hospitality: The act of being welcoming and generous to guests.
Father: here, A founder or originator.
Asia Minor: A historical peninsula in western Asia, now part of Turkey.
Aegean: A sea between Greece and Turkey.
Meadows: Fields covered with grass.
Slopes: The sides of a hill or mountain.
Trojans: People from Troy, an ancient city in Asia Minor.
Fortress: A fortified place, especially a castle.
Elope: to run away secretly, especially to get married
Siege: a military operation in which a force surrounds a city or fortress with the intent of capturing it by force
Better of it: To have the advantage or upper hand.
Course: The normal and expected way that something happens or develops.
Hector: A legendary Trojan hero, the son of King Priam.

Part II

Odysseus: A legendary Greek king, known for his cunning and intelligence. He was one of the leaders of the Greeks in the Trojan War.
Cunning: Clever and deceitful, often in a negative sense.
Wooden horse: A large hollow statue of a horse, often used in ancient warfare as a way to hide soldiers inside.
Architect: A person who designs buildings and other structures.
Persuade: To convince someone to do something.
Drag: To pull something heavy or difficult along the ground.
Deserted: Empty or abandoned.
Astonishment: great surprise or wonder.
Trembled: Shook or quivered, usually with fear or excitement.
Threatened: Menaced or warned of harm.
Tale: A story, especially a fictional one.
Frightened: Scared or alarmed.
Voyage: A long journey, especially by sea or air.
Offering: Something given freely.
Sacrifice: An act of offering something to a deity or spirit, often involving killing or giving up something valuable.
Cunning: Clever and deceitful.
Delighted: Very pleased or happy.
Disaster: A sudden event causing great damage or suffering.
Break down: To destroy or cause to collapse.
Feasted: This means to eat a large amount of food.
Rejoicing: This means feeling or showing great joy or happiness.
Terror: This means a sudden and intense feeling of fear.
Fleet: A group of ships sailing together.
Mast: A tall, upright pole supporting the sails of a ship.
Crept: Moved quietly and cautiously.
Signal: A sign or gesture used to communicate.
Palaces: Large and impressive houses belonging to kings or other important people.
Leaping flames: Flames that are moving quickly and high.
Taken by surprise: Caught unexpectedly.
Aphrodite: The Greek goddess of love and beauty.
Conquerors: People who have defeated an enemy and taken control of their land.
Slaves: People who are owned by others and forced to work for them.
Fate: The things that happen to a person that are not under their control.
Choked with emotion: Unable to speak because of strong feelings.
Resisted: To oppose or fight against something, especially an attack or force.

Chapter 2.5 – Autumn

Slenderness: The quality of being thin and graceful.
Nodding: Moving up and down.
Cooing: Making soft, murmuring sounds.
Tinkling: Making a soft, ringing sound.
Diadem: A crown or headband, especially one worn by royalty or nobility.
Multitudinous: Existing in large numbers; numerous.
Silken: Made of or resembling silk, a soft, lustrous fiber.
Bewitching: Fascinating or captivating in a way that is irresistible.
Slender: Gracefully thin.
Maid: A young unmarried woman.
Grown: Mature or fully developed.

Chapter 2.6 – The Past in the Present

Mod outfit: A stylish or fashionable outfit, often referring to a particular style from the mid-20th century.
Cuts her short: Interrupts her abruptly.
Chore: A routine task, especially a household one.
Messed up: disordered or untidy.
Firmly: strongly.
Grinding stones: Stones used for grinding or crushing substances, such as spices or grains.
Electric grinders: These are modern appliances that use electricity to grind materials.
19th century: The 100 years between 1801 and 1900.
Recede: to move away from something
Atya-patya: a traditional Indian game, similar to hide-and-seek.
Stacked: Arranged things in a pile.
Ashtapada: A traditional Indian board game.
Sampatbhau and Mahadevbhau: Names of two people.
Revered: Respected and admired.
Fetched: Brought something from somewhere.
Channels: A long, narrow passage for water or other liquid.
Weeds: Wild plants that grow where they are not wanted.
Patched: To repair a hole or tear in something.
Grumble: To complain in a low, unhappy voice.
Matadevi: A respectful term for “mother”.
Poultry: Birds raised for meat or eggs, such as chickens, ducks, or turkeys.
Sling: A weapon used to throw stones or other objects.
Bagh-chal: A traditional Indian board game similar to checkers.
1st Century: The 1st century refers to the first 100 years of the Common Era (CE), also known as Anno Domini (AD).
3000 BCE: This stands for “3000 Before Common Era,” meaning 3000 years before the birth of Jesus Christ.
Veil: A piece of cloth worn over the face or head, often for religious or cultural reasons.
Dost thou: “Do you.”
Bottom line: The most important or essential point.

Chapter 3.1 – Silver

Shoon: an archaic or poetic word for “shoes.” It’s a more formal and literary way to refer to footwear.
Peers: to look intently or curiously, often with difficulty.
Casements: These are the opening parts of a window, often hinged.
Thatch: A roof covering made of straw or reeds.
Couched: This means lying down, especially in a relaxed or comfortable position.
Kennel: A small shelter for a dog.
Log: A thick piece of wood that has been cut from a tree.
Cote: This refers to a small shelter or shed for birds, especially pigeons.
Scampering: Running quickly and lightly.
Gleam: flash, shine brightly
Reeds: tall, slender plants that often grow in wet or marshy areas

Chapter 3.2 – Reading Works of Art

Renowned: Famous and respected.
Captivating: Fascinating or enchanting.
Compositions: The arrangement or organization of elements in a work of art.
Depict: To represent or show something in a picture or description.
Lifelike: Realistic or natural-looking.
Abstract: This means the painting doesn’t represent a recognizable object or scene from the real world. It’s based on the artist’s feelings or ideas.
Imbalance: This means the painting feels uneven or off-balance.
Heritage: a legacy or inheritance
Context: the circumstances that form the setting for an event, statement, or idea, and in terms of which it can be fully understood and assessed
Philosophy: the study of the fundamental nature of reality, existence, and knowledge
Radiate: To send out or give off (light, heat, energy, etc.).
Visible: Able to be seen.
Metaphysical: Relating to the nature of reality and existence, beyond the physical world.
Bindu: A Sanskrit term referring to a point or dot, often used in Indian philosophy and art.
Spiritual: Relating to the soul or spirit, especially as distinct from the material or physical.
Complex: complicated, difficult to understand
Expressive: showing feelings or ideas clearly
Legacy: something that is left behind after someone dies
Sensitive: able to understand and react to feelings
Extraordinary: very unusual or surprising
Compositions: the way things are arranged or put together
Tribal Art: Art created by a specific ethnic or indigenous group.
Gond: A tribal community mainly found in central India.
Preserved: Kept safe or unchanged.
Mythology: A collection of stories about gods and heroes.
Inhabitants: People who live in a particular place.
Dravidian: A language family found in southern India.
Earthen walls: Walls made of clay.
Mediums: Substances used to create art, such as paint or clay.
Medium of recording: A way to keep a record of something.
Canvas: A strong, coarse cloth used as a surface for painting.
Bark: The outer covering of a tree trunk.
Lending: Giving or providing something.
Conveys: Communicates or expresses.
Outlines: These are the basic shapes or borders of a drawing or painting.
Textures: These refer to the way a surface feels or looks, often created by using different techniques or materials.
Commercialization: Making something available for sale or profit.
Chores: Routine tasks, especially household ones.
Leisure time: Time spent relaxing or doing enjoyable activities.

Chapter 3.3 – The Road Not Taken

Diverged: separated and took a different direction
Yellow wood: a forest with decomposing leaves
Undergrowth: dense growth of plants and bushes means the forest
Fair: As good as the other one,
Claim: Better option
Grassy: unused
Wanted wear: had not been used
Trodden means walked over.
Sigh: deep breath
Hence: here, in the future

Chapter 3.4 – How the First Letter was Written

Neolithic: This refers to the New Stone Age, a period of human history characterized by the development of agriculture and the use of polished stone tools.
Cavily: This means living in a cave.
Best Beloved: This is a term of endearment used in the story, similar to “sweetheart.”
Beaver-swamp: A wetland area where beavers live and build their dams. Beavers are large, semi-aquatic rodents native to North America, Europe, and Asia. Beavers have a distinctive appearance with their large, flat tails, strong teeth, and webbed feet.
Spear: A long, pointed weapon used for hunting or fishing.
Carp-fish: A type of fish commonly found in freshwater rivers and lakes.
Shark’s teeth: The sharp teeth of a shark, often used as a weapon or tool.
Jabbing: Poking or thrusting forcefully.
Clean across: Completely breaking something into two pieces.
Kettle of fish: This is an idiom that means a complicated or confusing situation.
Mend: To repair or fix something that is broken or damaged.
Mendy-bag: A small pouch or bag used for carrying mending supplies.
Reindeer-sinews: Strong tendons from a reindeer, often used for sewing or making tools.
Sinews: sinews are strong, fibrous tissues that connect muscles to bones. They are essentially tendons.
In the context of the story, reindeer sinews are used as a strong and durable material for repairing the spear.
Bee’s-wax: A waxy substance produced by bees.
Resin: A sticky substance produced by plants, often used in adhesives or waterproofing.
Nuisance: A bothersome or annoying person or thing.
Tribe: A group of people who are related to each other and share a common culture.
Tewara: A specific tribe mentioned in the story.
Hank: A small bundle or coil of something, especially thread or yarn.
Shoal: A large group of fish swimming together.
Carp: A type of fish commonly found in freshwater rivers and lakes.
Spear-mending: The process of repairing a spear.
Loose ends: Unfinished or unresolved matters.
Stamped her foot: s a gesture of annoyance or impatience.
Fireplace: A place in a room where a fire can be built.
Waves her arms: Moves her arms back and forth or up and down.
Haughty: Arrogant and condescending.
Birch-tree: A deciduous tree with white bark and triangular leaves.
Bark: The outer layer of a tree trunk.
Living-address: The current address where someone lives.
Scratch with: To make marks or lines using something sharp.
Shark’s tooth: The sharp tooth of a shark.
Pulled at: Pulled or tugged on.
Swell up: To increase in size or volume.
Burst: To break open suddenly, often with force.
Joggle: To move or shake slightly and repeatedly.
Fetch: To bring something back.
‘Splaining: A shortened form of “explaining.”
‘Fended: A colloquial term, likely meaning “offended” or “upset.” It’s a slightly informal and playful way to express being bothered or annoyed.
Battle: A violent confrontation between two or more groups of people.
Scratchily: In a way that is rough or uneven.
Pleased of: A misspelling of “pleased with,” meaning to be satisfied or happy.
Splain: A misspelling of “explain,” meaning to make something clear or understandable.
Slain: Killed.
Enemies: People who are hostile or want to harm others.
Pretended: Feigned or acted as if something were true when it was not.
Raced off: Ran away very quickly.
Birchbark: The bark of a birch tree, often used for writing or drawing.
Berangement: A state of confusion or disorder. In this context, it likely means a small, planned surprise or trick.
Primitive: Simple, unsophisticated, or belonging to an early stage of development.
Bramble: A thorny shrub, especially blackberry or raspberry.
Panted: Breathed heavily and quickly, often due to exertion.
Knock him down: To force someone to fall to the ground.
Horrid: Terrible or disgusting.
Pack: Here, a group

Chapter 4.1 – Please Listen !

Trampling: Stepping heavily on something, crushing it. In this context, it means disregarding or ignoring someone’s feelings.
Discouraged: Feeling a loss of confidence or enthusiasm.
Faltering: Losing strength or purpose, often hesitating or stumbling.
Contribute: contribute means to give something, in order to provide or achieve something together with other people.
Inadequacy: the state or quality of being not good enough or not enough.
Irrational: Not logical or reasonable.
Convince: Persuade someone to believe something.
Get about: Start doing something.
Obvious: easily understood or recognized
Mute: Silent or not speaking.

Chapter 4.2 – The Storyteller

PART-I

Correspondingly: correspondingly means in a way that is similar to, connected with, or caused by something else.
Sultry: hot and humid
Bachelor: an unmarried man
Emphatically: forcefully and decisively
Compartment: a separate room or section of a vehicle
Conversational: inclined to talk
Persistent: continuing firmly or obstinately
Discouraged: made less confident or enthusiastic
Exclaimed : to cry out or speak suddenly, as in surprise, anger, etc.
Smacking: here, punching.
Reluctantly: unwillingly, hesitantly
Protested: To express strong disapproval or disagreement.
Fatuously: foolishly or pointlessly
Swift: quick,rapid
Inevitable: certain to happen; unavoidable
Rarity: Something that is uncommon or rare.
Persisted: continued firmly or obstinately
Frown: a facial expression of displeasure or worry
Deepening to a scowl: becoming increasingly angry or displeased
Hard, unsympathetic man: a harsh, unkind, and insensitive person
Utterly unable: completely incapable
Satisfactory decision: a decision that is acceptable or pleasing
Diversion: A distraction or something that diverts attention.
Resolute: Determined; firm and unwavering.
Audible: Loud enough to be heard.
Wager: A bet; a gamble.
Listlessly: Without energy or enthusiasm; lazily.
Reputation: The belief or opinion that people have about someone or something.
Estimation: A judgment or opinion formed about something.
Confidential: secret, private
Petulant: childishly sulky or bad-tempered
Unenterprising: lacking initiative or ambition
Deplorably: shockingly bad
Uninteresting: dull, boring
Moral character: a person’s sense of right and wrong
Lamely: weakly, feebly, or clumsily.
Conviction: strong belief
Recommenced: started again
Bristled: reacted with annoyance or anger
Instant defence: immediate protection or justification
Unexpected attack: a sudden criticism or insult
Stiffly: In a formal, rigid, or unyielding manner.
Retort: A quick reply, often sharp or witty.
Extraordinarily: exceptionally, remarkably
Flicker: This means to waver or die down, similar to a flame flickering.
Horribly: Extremely or very badly.
Wave of reaction: A sudden surge of public opinion or response.
Commended itself: Approved itself; recommended itself.
Ring of truth: A sense of authenticity or reality.

PART-II

Punctuality: The quality or habit of being on time; promptness.
Quoted: Repeated a passage or statement from a book, speech, or conversation.
Harmless: Not causing any harm or damage.
Treasures: valuable possessions or things
Resumed: continued
Promptly: quickly and immediately
Murmur: A soft, indistinct sound, often made by many people talking at once.
Delightful: very pleasant and enjoyable
Ponds: a small body of still water
Hummingbirds: tiny birds known for their rapid wing movements and ability to hover
Hummed: made a low, continuous sound
Tunes: a sequence of musical notes forming a melody
Immensely: To a very great extent; extremely.
Prowling: Moving about stealthily, especially in search of prey.
Pinafore: A sleeveless garment worn over a dress or blouse, typically fastened at the back.
Spotlessly: Perfectly clean.
Stealing: Moving quietly and cautiously.
Shrubbery: A plantation of shrubs.
Myrtle: An evergreen shrub with fragrant white flowers
Lolling: Hanging loosely or limply
Glaring: Staring angrily or fiercely
Scent: A distinctive smell
Sniff out: To discover something by smelling
Prowling: Moving about stealthily, especially in search of prey.
Sniffing: Inhaling air through the nose, often to detect odors.
Clinked: Made a short, sharp sound, typically by metal objects striking each other.
Ferocity: The quality or state of being fierce and violent.
Triumph: A great victory or achievement.
Morsel: A small piece of food.
Devoured: Ate hungrily and quickly.
Dissentient: A person who disagrees with something or someone.
Improper: Not suitable or correct.
Undermined: Weakened or damaged.
At any rate: Regardless of other circumstances or opinions.
Preparatory to: In preparation for.
Carriage: A compartment of a train.
Assailed: This means attacked or overwhelmed, in this case with requests.

Chapter 4.3 – Intellectual Rubbish

Prone: inclined to do something; likely to
Silly error: a mistake that is foolish or unreasonable
Cautious: Careful and avoiding risks.
Hedgehogs: Hedgehogs are small, spiny mammals.
Passionate convictions: Strong beliefs or opinions held with great intensity.
Bias: A tendency to favor one side over another, often unfairly.
Contrary: Opposite or different.
Subconsciously: Without conscious awareness.
Savage controversies: Fierce, intense, and often violent arguments or debates.
Warrants: Justifies or supports.
Be on your guard: to be on your guard means to be alert and cautious
Evidence: factual information or proof
Dogmatism: The tendency to lay down principles as incontrovertibly true.
Social circles: Groups of people with similar interests or backgrounds.
Profitable: Beneficial or advantageous.
Diminishing: Reducing or lessening.
Insular prejudice: Narrow-minded or provincial prejudice.
Perverse: Strange and abnormal.
Wicked: Immoral or evil.
Generate: Produce or create.
Custom: A traditional practice or belief of a particular group or people.
Pigtails: In this context, “pigtails” refers to a specific hairstyle popular among Manchu men during the Qing Dynasty in China. It involved shaving the head except for a patch of hair on the front and sides, which was then braided into a queue that hung down the back.
Dominion: Control or power over a territory or people.
Revolution: A forcible overthrow of a government or social order in favor of a new system.
Bias: bias refers to a person’s particular inclination or prejudice towards a certain idea or viewpoint.
Deplored: Strongly disapproved of.
Refutation: The act of proving a statement or theory to be wrong or false.
Cocksure: Overconfident and arrogant.
Hypothetical: Based on supposition or theory rather than fact.
Wary: to be cautious or alert
Abundant evidence: Plenty of proof or support.
Retort: To reply quickly, often in a sharp or angry way.
Inherently insoluble: Impossible to solve or explain.
Self-esteem: Confidence in one’s own worth or abilities.
Conceals: Hides or keeps something secret.
Persuaded: convinced
Superior: better than others
Characteristic: typical
Trivial: unimportant
Demonstrably: In a way that can be clearly shown or proved.
Conceit: Excessive pride or self-love.
Brief: short
Episode: a part of something
Cosmos: The universe considered as an orderly system.
Aught we know: For all we know.
Elixir of life: A magical potion believed to give eternal life.
Vague: unclear, indefinite, or hazy
Endeavour: a serious attempt to do something
Talismans, spells, or incantations: Objects, words, or phrases believed to have magical power.
Primitive magic: Magic practices of ancient cultures.
God Osiris: Osiris is an ancient Egyptian god, often associated with the afterlife, resurrection, fertility, and the vegetation of the Nile.
Solemn: Serious, formal, and dignified.
Gaiety: Cheerfulness and fun.
Enroll: To register or sign up for something.
Messiah: A religious leader, especially Jesus Christ, who is believed to be the savior of humanity.
Omit: To leave out or exclude.
Prophetess: A female prophet, someone who claims to receive divine inspiration.
Faithful: Devoted followers.
Assembled: Gathered together.
Persuaded: Convinced or certain.
Edified: Enlightened or spiritually uplifted.
Cold science: a reference to science as a purely rational and unemotional pursuit.
Abundant diet: A large quantity of something, especially food or drink
Plentiful supply: A large amount of something

Chapter 4.4 – My Financial Career

Rattled: to be nervous, agitated, or upset.
Wickets: small windows or openings in a counter or partition, often used in banks to interact with customers.
Threshold: The entrance or starting point of something.
Jay: A simpleton or a fool. A “jay” is also a type of bird.
Hesitating jay: This is a metaphorical expression used to describe someone who feels nervous, unsure, or awkward in a particular situation, especially one involving authority figures or formal settings.
Beforehand: “in advance” or “ahead of time.”
Raised: “increased” or “made higher.”
Shambled: To walk awkwardly, with dragging feet.
Timidly: In a shy, nervous, or hesitant manner.
Consult: To seek advice or information from someone.
Sepulchral: This word means deep and hollow, like the sound of someone speaking from a tomb. It’s often used to describe a voice that sounds very serious and gloomy.
Solemnly: In a serious and formal manner, often with a sense of gravity or importance.
Fetched – to go and get someone or something and bring them back.
Grave: serious, solemn, dignified
Clutched: held tightly
Crumpled: wrinkled, crushed
Self-evident: so obvious that it doesn’t need to be explained or proven.
Alarm: A feeling of fear or anxiety that something bad is going to happen.
Awful: Extremely bad or unpleasant.
Reveal: to make known or disclose something that was previously secret or hidden.
Interruption: a break in the continuity of something, like a conversation or an activity.
Imply: to suggest or indicate something indirectly.
Prompt: to encourage or persuade someone to do something.
Rival: a competitor or opponent
Rose: here, stood up or got up from a sitting position
Poke: In this context, it means to quickly thrust the ball of money towards the accountant.
Convulsive: sudden, violent, and uncontrollable.
Conjuring trick: A magical illusion or deception performed by a magician.
Ghastly pale: extremely pale, in a way that is shocking or frightening.
While the fit is on us: The phrase suggests that the narrator is taking advantage of a temporary moment of determination or resolve to complete the task, knowing that he may regret it later.
Hollow: describe a feeling of emptiness or despair.
Vibrating: This means trembling or shaking rapidly.
Hollow vibrating voice: “hollow vibrating voice” describes a voice that sounds weak, unsteady, and lacking in emotion.
Invalid: in this context, a person who is weak or sick, often unable to do normal activities
Reckless with misery: This phrase means that the person was so overwhelmed by sadness or despair that they acted without considering the consequences.
Plunge: This means to jump or dive suddenly into something, often with a sense of risk or danger.
Astonished: This means to be greatly surprised or amazed.
Idiot hope: This is a humorous way of saying that the hope was foolish or illogical.
Wretched attempt: A very poor or unsuccessful attempt.
Fearfully quick temper: A very quick temper, often used to describe someone who gets angry easily.
Dryly: In an unimpressed manner.
Silver Dollars: “silver dollars” refers to large silver coins that were once used as currency in the United States.

Chapter 4.5 – Tansen

Renown: fame or widespread acclaim.
Badshahi Fort: A historical fort built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in Lahore, Pakistan.
Ravished: Delighted or captivated.
Diadem: a crown or other ornamental headdress, especially one worn by royalty.
Deepak Raga: A specific classical Indian raga associated with fire and passion.
Pyre: A heap of combustible material, especially one for burning a corpse.
Consuming flame: A very hot and destructive fire.
Maiden: A young unmarried woman.
Malhar: A classical Indian raga associated with the rainy season, known for its soothing and cooling effect.
As of old: Like it was before.
Mighty: Powerful, strong, or impressive in size, force, or extent.
Divine: Of, relating to, or proceeding directly from God or a god.
Thine: Possessive pronoun, meaning “your” or “yours.”
Learnt at his feet: This phrase is a figurative expression meaning that Tansen learned from his guru by sitting at his feet, symbolizing deep respect and devotion to the teacher.
Ignoble crowd: This refers to ordinary people who are not spiritually enlightened or focused on higher pursuits. It implies a sense of superiority of the spiritual path over worldly concerns.
Scorning its wealth: Disregarding or rejecting wealth.
Himalay: The Himalayas, a mountain range.
Could I but see him once: This means “If only I could see him once.”
Sit at his feet awhile: This means “To sit humbly in the presence of a respected teacher or guru.”
Celestial: heavenly, divine, or spiritual.
Deny: to refuse to accept or admit.
Huzoor: A respectful term used to address a person of high rank, such as a king or emperor. It’s similar to “Your Majesty” or “Your Highness.”
‘Twere: A contraction of “it were,” meaning “it would be.” It’s an archaic form of the verb “to be.”
Lifted above the things of earth: This means that the Ostad is spiritually elevated, above the worldly concerns and desires of ordinary people.
Disdains to sing to earthly kings: This means that the Ostad refuses to sing for kings or other powerful people on Earth, as he is focused on higher spiritual goals.
Slave: servant
Knelt: went down on knees
Supplication: a humble request or prayer.
Thy song: your song
Holy Master: a revered spiritual teacher
Shrine: holy place of worship
lo: Behold, look, see
Humility: The quality of being humble; not proud or arrogant.
Felicity: Great happiness and joy.
Ecstatic: Feeling or expressing overwhelming happiness or excitement.
Enchanted: Filled with delight and wonder.
Malkous Raga: Malkous Raga is a classical raga in Indian music. It is one of the oldest ragas and is considered to be very soothing and meditative.
O’er: Over
Rapture: A state of intense joy, delight, or excitement.
Roll: To move in waves
Vanished: disappeared suddenly and completely.
Gaze: a steady fixed look.
Theme: the subject of a talk, a piece of writing, a person’s thoughts, or an exhibition
Enchanted: charmed or captivated
Enfolds: wraps around or embraces
In high delight: This means feeling very happy and pleased.
Lure: To tempt or attract someone or something.
Untrod: Not walked on or traveled on.
Thee: An archaic form of “you”.

Also See:

Maharashtra State Board Class 9 English Word Meanings

Maharashtra State Board Class 9 English Meaning of Difficult Words from All Chapters (Prose and Poetry) of Kumarbharati Book

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