PSEB Class 10 English Meaning of Difficult Words from All Chapters (Prose and Poetry) of A Rainbow of English Book
PSEB Class 12 English Word Meanings – Here, the difficult words and their meanings of all the chapters of PSEB Class 12 English A Rainbow of English 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 PSEB Class 12 A Rainbow of English Book. The difficult words’ meanings have been explained lucidly so that every student can understand them.
A Rainbow of English Book Section A (Lessons for Intensive study)
- Chapter 1- Hassan’s Attendance Problem
- Chapter 2 – The March King
- Chapter 3- Thinking Out of the Box: Lateral Thinking
- Chapter 4- On Saying ‘Please’
- Chapter 5 – The Story of My Life
- Chapter 6 – Two Gentlemen of Verona
- Chapter 7 – In Celebration of Being Alive
- Chapter 8 – Ghadari Babas in Kalapani Jail
A Rainbow of English Book Section B (Poetry)
- Poem 1- Prayer of the Woods
- Poem 2- On Friendship
- Poem 3 – The Echoing Green
- Poem 4 – Once upon a Time
- Poem 5 – Father Returning home
- Poem 6 – The Road Not Taken
- Poem 7 – On His Blindness
A Rainbow of English Book Section C (Lessons for Extensive study)
- Chapter 1 – The School for Sympathy
- Chapter 2 – A Chameleon
- Chapter 3 – Bholi
- Chapter 4 – The Gold Frame
- Chapter 5- The Barber’s Trade Union
- Chapter 6- The Bull beneath the Earth
A Rainbow of English Book Section A (Lessons for Intensive study)
Chapter 1- Hassan’s Attendance Problem
Word Meanings
- philanthropist: a rich person who helps the poor and those in need, especially by giving money
- spouse: a married person
- immense: very big or great
- humbleness: the quality of not being proud or arrogant’
- quintessential: being the perfect example of something
- etch (v): make strong impression on one’s mind, cut lines into a piece of glass/metal etc.
- batch: class
- affluent (adj): prosperous, wealthy (a very affluent neighbourhood)
- apologetically (adv.): in the manner of saying sorry for something that has been done wrong or that causes a problem
- pardon me: used to indicate that one has not heard or understood something.
- err: to make a mistake
- divine: connected with god
- shortage: a situation where there is not enough of something
- tend: to usually do or be something
- invariably: almost always
- arrogant: thinking that you are better and more important than other people
- fruitlessly: in a way that does not produce any useful results
- accusingly (adv): showing that you think somebody has done something wrong. (She was looking accusingly at her husband for his bad deeds.)
- concerned: worried
- plump (adj): having a soft round body; slightly fat (a plump woman)
- perpetual (adj): continuous (the perpetual noise of traffic)
- coin dropped: someone has finally understood something, often after a period of confusion or misunderstanding
- moral: concerned with what is right and wrong
- pale: (used about a person or their face) having skin that is light in colour, often because of fear or illness
- nerd (n): a person who is boring, stupid and not fashionable
- temper: anger
- quarrelling: to have an angry argument or disagreement
- bump into:- to meet somebody by chance
- glimpse (n): a look, or see something or somebody for a very short time (He caught a glimpse of her in the crowd.)
Related:
- Hassan’s Attendance Problem Summary, Explanation
- Hassan’s Attendance Problem Question Answers
- Hassan’s Attendance Problem Character Sketch
Chapter 2 – The March King
Word Meanings
- march: a musical composition composed for a march
- grin: a broad smile
- rapture: a feeling of extreme pleasure and happiness or delight
- vowed: to make a formal and serious promise to do something.
- puff: to breathe loudly and quickly especially after you have been running
- streak: to mark or cover something with streaks. (His face was streaked with mud.)
- yelled: shouted loudly because of anger, excitement or pain.
- gobble: to eat something very fast.
- moaned: to make a low sound because you are in pain, very sad, etc
- forlornly: appearing lonely and unhappy
- Ought: used to indicate duty or correctness, typically when criticizing someone’s actions.
- Gasped: to have difficulty in breathing
- scowled: to look at someone or something with a very annoyed expression
- fetched: to go to a place and bring back somebody/something
- nimble: agile or able to move quickly and easily
- creep up: to move slowly nearer to somebody usually from behind, without being seen or heard.
- sulk: to look angry and refuse to speak or smile.
- mumble: to speak or say something in a quiet voice in a way that is not clear, or mutter
- slink: creep or to move somewhere very quietly and slowly, especially because you are ashamed
- scoff: to talk in a way that makes it clear that you think they are ridiculous
- glower: to look in an aggressive or angry way trudge (v) to walk slowly or with heavy steps because you are tired.
- trudged: to walk with slow, heavy steps, for example because you are very tired
- trifle: slight or small and not important, or trivial
- Firmly: In a strong and confident way
- Insist: To strongly say that something must be done
- Amazed: Very surprised or impressed
- twinkling: in a very short time
- Dejectedly: In a sad or depressed way
- Cradle: A small bed for a baby that can be moved to and fro
- aroused: Awakened or stirred up (a feeling or response)
- utterly: Completely or totally
- exhausted: Extremely tired; worn out
- weary: very tired, especially after you are working hard. (She suddenly felt old and weary.)
- groan: to make a long deep sound when you are annoyed, upset or in pain (We all groaned at his terrible jokes.)
- wistful: thinking sadly about something that you would like to have
- fiddle: violin
- elated: very happy and excited
- tingling: an exciting feeling of emotion
- barracks: a large building or group of buildings for soldiers to live in (The troops were ordered back to barracks.)
- apprentice: a young person who works for an employer for a fixed period of time in order to learn the particular skills needed in their job
- Pupils: Students, especially in school.
- Appealed: Was attractive or interesting.
- Fluffy: Soft and light in texture.
- Vowed: Made a strong promise.
Related:
- The March King Summary and Explanation
- The March King Question Answers
- The March King Character Sketch
Chapter 3- Thinking Out of the Box: Lateral Thinking
Word Meanings
- fancied (v): took a liking for (The film star fancied designer suits.)
- forgo (v): to give up or do without (He will have to forgo the pleasure of attending the lecture as he is unwell.)
- providence (n): God’s force or a divine unseen power that controls (The doctors have done everything possible for him; the rest is left to providence.)
- pebble (n): a smooth round stone that is found in or near water
- strewn (v): (from strew) to cover a surface with things, or scatter. (Clothes were strewn across the floor.)
- ponder (v): to think about something carefully for a period of time, or consider (She pondered over his words.)
- dilemma (n): a situation that creates problems, often one in which you have to make a very difficult choice between things of equal importance or predicament
- fumble (v): to use your hands in an awkward way when you are doing something or looking for something. (She fumbled in her pocket for a handkerchief.)
- clumsy (adj): moving or doing things in a very awkward way (His clumsy fingers couldn’t untie the knot.)
- Propagated: to spread an idea, a belief or a piece of information among many people.
- Notion: something that you have in your mind; an idea
- intellectual: connected with a person’s ability to think logically and to understand things.
- collateral (n): property acceptable as security for a loan or other obligation (My brother decided to put up his flat as collateral security to get a loan.)
- stroll (v): to walk in a leisurely way (We enjoyed a leisurely stroll on Sunday morning.)
- Rage: Anger
- Perception: a particular way of looking at or understanding something
Related:
- Thinking Out of the Box: Lateral Thinking Summary and Explanation
- Thinking Out of the Box: Lateral Thinking Question Answers
- Thinking Out of the Box: Lateral Thinking Character Sketch
Chapter 4- On Saying ‘Please’
Word Meanings
- offence (n): an illegal act
- complainant (n): a person who files a complaint or accuses someone of doing something malicious
- concession (n): something that you allow or do, or allow somebody to have in order to end an argument
- comply (v): to act according to one’s wish or command
- hurl (v): to abuse, insult (Rival fans hurled abuse at each other.)
- discourtesy (n): behaviour or an action that is not polite
- assault and battery (n): the crime of threatening to harm somebody and then attacking them physically
- acquit (v): to declare or find not guilty
- retaliate (v): to take revenge
- assailant (n): a person who attacks somebody/attacker
- legislate (v): to make laws
- sanction (v): to fine someone for breaking a rule or law
- box people’s ears: (idiom) to slap someone on the side of the head, close to the ears
- scowl (n): an angry look or annoyed way or expression
- idle (v): to do nothing
- uncivil (adj): something that is not seen as civil or acceptable by the society
- violent (adj): something that is harmful and harsh done due to extreme anger, frustration or sorrow
- haughty (adj): arrogant or behaving in an unfriendly way
- boorish (adj): rough and ill-mannered
- compel (v): to force someone to do something with persuasion
- attune (v): to adjust
- wax (v): to polish or make something shine
- ringlets (n): locks of hair in a corkscrew-shaped curls
- laceration (n): to cut with something sharp (She suffered multiple lacerations to the face.)
- compensation (n): something that is given to the person in harm or inconvenience as an apology, typically money
- allowance (n): money or charges
- acutely (adv): intensely unpleasant
- Slur (n): insult (She had dared to cast a slur on his character.)
- legal redress: the right to seek a remedy or compensation for a wrong, harm, or injustice through legal means
- vanity (n): the quality of being worthless or futile
- brooding (adj): sad and mysterious or threatening
- henpecked (adj): a man who has a wife who is always telling him what to do and is too weak to disagree with her
- insolent (adj): extremely rude and showing a lack of respect (an insolent child)
- morose (adj): unhappy, gloomy (She just sat there looking morose.)
- decalogue (n): the 10 commandments by God, here, a set of rules that have the weight of authority
- endorse (v): to publicly support
- verdict (n): final decision regarding a criminal or civil case
- enjoin (v): to instruct or urge
- acknowledge (v): to take notice and respect or thank an effort or service
- resentment (n): a feeling of anger or unhappiness about something that you think is unfair
- feature (v): to introduce or showcase
- rebuke (n): a sharp disapproval or criticism
- disposed (v): to have an opinion on
- ordeal (n): a difficult or unpleasant experience
- trying (adj): difficult, annoying or hard to endure
- knave (n): a dishonest person
- book (v): to book an accommodation or travel
- lit (v): to discover something in the dark
- squared (v): handled fairly and honestly
- trample (v): to step heavily on something or somebody so that you crush or harm them
- agony (n): extreme pain
- countenance (n): a person’s face or his expression solicitous (adj) attentive
- solicitous (adj): showing interest, attention and concern
- merry (adj): warm and good-natured
- jest (n): banter, a pleasant talk full of jokes
- irradiate (v): to illuminate
- apt (adj): to have a tendency to
- uncouth (adj): rude or socially unacceptable
- benediction (n): a blessing
- conciliatory (adj): peacemaking
- gaiety (n): the state of being cheerful and full of fun
- drab (adj): dull
- panegyric (n): a speech praising somebody
- moor (n): a tract of open uncultivated upland
- boor (n): a disrespectful and degrading man
- commend (v): to propose or recommend
Related:
- On Saying ‘Please’ Summary and Explanation
- On Saying ‘Please’ Question Answers
- On Saying ‘Please’ Character Sketch
Chapter 5 – The Story of My Life
Word Meanings
- immeasurable (adj): too large or great to be measured
- contrasts (n): opposites
- vaguely (adv): not firm or sure
- penetrated (v): to go into or pass through something
- honey suckle (n): a climbing plant with white, yellow, or pink flowers with a sweet smell
- upturned (adj): something that is turned in the upwards direction
- marvel (n): something that is amazing and extraordinary
- languor (n): the pleasant state of feeling lazy and without energy
- tangible (adj): something that can be felt by touch
- grope (v): to try and find something that you cannot see, by feeling with your hands
- plummet (n): a line of thread with a ball of lead or other heavy object attached to the end of the line for finding the depth of water
- sounding-line (n): a weighted line with distances marked off at regular intervals, used to measure the depth of water under a boat.
- harbour (n): an area of water on the coast, protected from the open sea by strong walls, where ships can shelter
- approaching (adj): coming towards someone
- uncomprehending (adj): not understanding a situation or what is happening
- tussle (n): a short struggle, fight or argument especially in order to get something (He was injured during a tussle for the ball.)
- to impress upon: to ensure someone fully understands and acknowledges the significance of a particular point or idea.
- persist (v): to continue to do something despite difficulties or opposition in a way that can seem unreasonable
- confound (v): to confuse and surprise somebody, or baffle. (The sudden rise in share prices has confounded economists.)
- despair (n): the feeling of having lost all hope (She uttered a cry of despair.)
- dashed (v): strike or fling (something) somewhere with great force
- tenderness (n): delicacy, softness
- hearth (n): the floor at the bottom of a fireplace. (The cat dozed in its favourite spot on the hearth.)
- hop (n): to move by jumping on one foot
- spout (n): a pipe or tube on a container, that you can pour liquid out through or fountain
- gush (v): to flow or pour suddenly and quickly out of a hole in a large amount
- misty (adj): blurred, not clear or bright (His eyes grew misty as he talked.)
- thrill (n): a sudden feeling of extreme excitement.
- quiver (n): to shake slightly or tremble
- vainly (adv): in a way that produces no result; to no avail.
- repentance (n): the fact of showing that you are sorry for something that you have done, or remorse
- Aaron’s rod with flowers: a profound and sudden blossoming of understanding and vocabulary
- crib (n): a small bed with high sides for a baby or young child
Related:
- The Story of My Life Summary and Explanation
- The Story of My Life Question Answers
- The Story of My Life Character Sketch
Chapter 6 – Two Gentlemen of Verona
Word Meanings
- Verona : a city in Italy. Romeo and Juliet are believed to have lived there
- Shrugged: To raise and lower your shoulder in order to show disapproval.
- Shabby: Poor condition especially dressed in old and worn clothes.
- worn : old and damaged
- tunic : a loose outer garment that does not have sleeves
- Earnest: A serious mental state.
- Brisk: Quick, fast.
- Slackened: Slowed down or less active.
- Juliet’s tomb – The place where Juliet, the woman Romeo loved, was buried. Romeo and Juliet is a play written by Shakespeare.
- demeanour: A person’s appearance or behavior.
- artless : guileless; innocent
- Hawked: To offer for sale by calling out in the street.
- Errands: Short work or business trip.
- Deserted: Empty or sparsely occupied.
- Emigrate: Leave one’s own country in order to settle permanently in another.
- Vexation: Annoyed state.
- put out : offended; annoyed
- Humble Dwellings: A simple living space
- Steel-rimmed: The upper or outer edge of an object, especially when curved or circular.
- Vestibule: An entrance hall inside a building.
- Intrude: To interrupt someone’s privacy.
- Rubble: Waste or rough fragments of stone, brick, concrete, etc., especially as the debris from the demolition of buildings.
- Scarce: Very small in amount.
Related:
- Two Gentlemen of Verona Summary and Explanation
- Two Gentlemen of Verona Question Answers
- Two Gentlemen of Verona Character Sketch
Chapter 7 – In Celebration of Being Alive
Word Meanings
- consideration (n): careful thought
- prevalent (adj): widespread
- cripple (n): a person who is unable to walk or move normally because of a disease or injury
- stem (v): to result from
- agony (n): extreme and unbearable pain
- perforate (v): to make holes through something
- ennoble (v): to make somebody noble
- thrashing around (v): move in a violent and convulsive way
- ward (n): a separate room
- abnormal (adj): not normal
- sophisticated (adj): an advanced technique
- mutilate (v): to damage somebody’s body very severely especially by cutting part of it
- solace (n): comfort or consolation in a time of distress
- intrepid (adj): fearless (an intrepid explorer)
- galloping (v): moving fast and gaining speed rapidly
- steer (v): to control the direction of movement
- ward sister (n): a senior, experienced nurse who is in charge of a hospital ward
- disfigured (adj): spoilt or ruined appearance
- flap (n): a thin, flat piece of cloth, paper, metal, etc. that is hinged or attached on one side only and covers an opening or hangs down from something.
- malignant (adj): a tumour or disease that cannot be controlled and likely to cause death
- amputate (v): to cut off somebody’s arm, leg in a medical operation
Related:
- In Celebration of Being Alive Summary, Explanation
- In Celebration of Being Alive Question Answers
- In Celebration of Being Alive Character Sketch
Chapter 8 – Ghadari Babas in Kalapani Jail
Word Meanings
- revolutionary (adj): a political or dramatic change which is rebellious in nature
- exile (n): the state of being barred from one’s native country, typically for political or punitive reasons
- overthrowing (v): remove forcibly from power
- stipulated (v): demand or specify as per an agreement
- cellular jail: a jail where prisoners were forced to stay in solitary small rooms named ‘Kaal Kothris’ by the people. This jail consisted of 690 cells. Each cell meant for one prisoner was thirteen feet by seven feet and was closed from all side except the iron door
- penal colony (n): a settlement used to exile criminals and other often revolutionary individuals, far from the general population
- Alipore Conspiracy Case (Alipore Bomb Case): 1908-1909 related to the trial of a large number of revolutionaries of Bengal on charges of conspiracy against the British government and killing of British officials
- conspiracy (n): a secret plan by a group of people to do something harmful or illegal
- Nasik Conspiracy Case 1910: The Case in which Ganesh Damodar Savarkar elder brother of V.D. Savarkar was tried for waging a war against the King Emperor. Later a number of his other comrades were tried as a part of the same conspiracy
- V.D. Savarkar: Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was a prominent revolutionary based in London from 1905 to 1910. His book on the revolt of 1857, titled Indian war of Independence 1857, became a Bible for the revolutionaries at that time. He was convicted in 1911, punished to deportation for life and was sent to Andaman Jail
- Lahore Supplementary Conspiracy Case: The Ghadarites were tried in a series of Conspiracy cases which came to be known as Lahore Conspiracy Case 1915 supplementary Lahore Conspiracy Case and later Second, Third and Fourth Supplementary Lahore Conspiracy Cases
- Mandalay Conspiracy: Also Known as Burma conspiracy cases in which Ghadar revolutionaries arrested in Burma and Siam (Thailand) were tried for conspiring to overthrow the British Government in India
- inclement (adj): increasing in an unpleasant manner
- infested with: full of (The kitchen was infested with ants.)
- leech (n): a small worm that usually lives in water and that attaches itself to other creatures and sucks their blood
- inadequate (adj): incompetent or not enough (The system is inadequate for the tasks.)
- dysentery (n): an infection of the bowels that causes severe Diarrhoea with loss of blood
- kohlu: a crude, rural device for extracting oil from the seeds. This machine was pulled by bullocks. In place of bullocks, freedom fighters were forced to work as a device to punish and torture them
- pound (v): A British measure of weight which is equal to 0.454 kilogram
- filthy (adj): very dirty and unpleasant substance
- oozing (v): slowly trickle or seep out of something
- patently (adv): clearly, surely, without any doubt
- revolting (adj): disgusting
- confined (v): locked or chained in a room
- dingy (adj): gloomy and drab (dark)
- graphic (adj): giving clear and vividly explicit details
- heart-rending (adj): disturbing and tragic
- vengeful (adj): showing a desire to punish somebody who has harmed you
- sadistic (adj): a pleasure obtained by hurting other people, making people suffer physical pain and mental harassment or humiliation
- progeny (n): child, offspring
- convicted (v): proven or declared guilty of an offense, especially after a legal trial
- petty (adj): secondary or less important rank
- jamadars (n): junior officials in the jail
- resistance (n): dislike or opposition to a plan
- indignity (n): anger
- retaliation (n): action that a person takes against somebody who has harmed him in some way
- horrendous (adj): extremely shocking/horrifying
- stir (n): a commotion or disturbance
- standing bar chains (n): refers to the ball and chain or leg irons historically used as a restraint device
- relent (v): give in, to finally agree to something after refusing
- entreaty (n): a serious and often emotional request
- legendary (adj): very famous and talked about a lot
- to take in one’s stride: to take or accept advances or setbacks as the normal course of events
- brutal force (n): savagely violent force
- soul-force (n): the moral and spiritual power that resides within individuals, enabling them to resist injustice and oppression through nonviolent means
- daring resistance (n): open disregard
- living martyr (n): the persons who sacrifice everything while they are living for a belief, cause or country
- crux (n): the most important or difficult part of a problem or an issue
- matribhoomi (n): hindi word meaning motherland
Related:
A Rainbow of English Book Section B (Poetry)
Poem 1- Prayer of the Woods
Word Meanings
- hearth: the floor at the bottom of a fireplace
- draught: one continuous action of swallowing liquid
- quenching: drinking so that you no longer feel thirsty
- beam: a long, sturdy piece of squared timber or metal used to support the roof or floor of a building.
- hoe: a garden tool with a long handle and a blade used for removing weeds
- homestead: a house with land and buildings around it; especially a farm
- cradle: a small bed for a baby that can be pushed gently from side to side
- coffin: a box in which a dead body is buried
- ye: plural form of ‘thou’, used in ancient English
Related:
Poem 2- On Friendship
Word Meanings
- sow (v): to plant or spread seeds in the ground
- reap (v): to cut and collect a crop from a field. In the poem, it means to obtain something good as a direct result of something you have done
- fireside (n): the part of a room that surrounds a fireplace
- withhold (v): to refuse to give something or to keep back something
- ceases(v): stops happening or existing
- unacclaimed (adj.): not receiving praise or recognition
- grieve (v): to feel or express great sadness
- net cast forth (v): to throw forth (a net, fishing line, hook), in the poem, it symbolizes selfish love or friendship that tries to gain something rather than being genuine
- ebb (v): the period of time when the sea flows away from the land
- spirit (n): the inner character of a person, thought of as different from the material person we can see and touch
- aught (pronoun): anything
- unprofitable (adj.): not making a profit
- seek (v): to search for something or someone
- dew (n): the small drops of water that form on the ground etc. during the night
Related:
Poem 3 – The Echoing Green
Word Meanings
- skies (phrase): the sky in a particular state or place
- merry bells (n): small bells producing a cheerful sound
- skylark (n): a small, brown bird that is known for its beautiful singing
- thrush (n): a brown bird with a pale breast with spots on it that is known for its singing
- the echoing green (n): an open green space or a playground in the village, reverberating with the noise made by the children and the birds
- care (n): the feeling of worry or anxiety
- oak (n): a large tree that is common in northern parts of the world, or the hard wood of this tree
- old-folk (n): aged people
- youth-time (n): the period of your life when you are young
- weary (adj.): tired
- descend (v): come down
- nest (n): a structure built by birds or insects to leave their eggs in to develop
Related:
Poem 4 – Once upon a Time
Word Meanings
- ice-block-cold eyes (metaphor): A look showing no emotions
shadow (n): an area of darkness, caused by light being blocked by something - pockets (n): a small bag for carrying things in, made of cloth and sewn into the inside or onto the outside of a piece of clothing
- shut (v): to close something
- conforming (v): behaving or thinking in the same way as most other people in a group or society
- portrait (n): (1) a painting, drawing or a photograph of a person, especially of the head and shoulders (2) a detailed description of something
- riddance (n): an unkind way of saying that you are pleased that somebody has gone
- bored (adj.): feeling unhappy because something is not interesting or because you have nothing to do, or showing that you feel like this
- unlearn (v): to make an effort to forget your usual way of doing something so that you can learn a new and sometimes better way
- muting (adj.): silent or not speaking; here, things which the poet has lost over the years like his emotions and innocence
- relearn (v): to learn something again
- fangs (n): long sharp teeth at the front of a snake’s mouth
- once upon a time (phrase): something happened or existed a long time ago or in an imaginary world
Related:
Poem 5 – Father Returning home
Word Meanings
- commuter (n): a person who travels into a city to work each day, usually from quite far away
- suburb (n): an area where people live that is outside the centre of a city
- soggy (adj.): wet and soft
- homeward (adv): towards home
- humid (adj.): containing extremely small drops of water in the air
- chappals (n): one of a pair of sandals, usually of leather, worn in India
- tea (n): a drink made by pouring hot water onto dried and cut leaves and sometimes flowers, especially the leaves of the tea plant
- stale (adj.): no longer new or fresh, usually as a result of being kept for too long
- chapati (n): A type of flat round, South Asian bread
- contemplate (v): to spend time considering a possible future action, or to consider one particular thing for a long time in a serious and quiet way
- estrangement (n): a period when you are no longer friendly with someone, or the fact of no longer being friendly
- tremble (v): to shake in a way that you cannot control, especially because of fear or nervousness
- sullen (adj.): angry and unwilling to smile or be pleasant to people
- static (adj.): noise and other effects that disturb the radio or television signals
- ancestors (n): a person related to you who lived a long time ago
- nomads (n): a member of a community that moves with its animals from place to place
- subcontinent (n): a large area of land that is part of a continent, often referring to South Asia
- narrow pass (n): a restricted, narrow route or passage that offers limited space for people or vehicles to move through
Related:
Poem 6 – The Road Not Taken
Word Meanings
- 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
Related:
Poem 7 – On His Blindness
Word Meanings
- Ere (prep.): before (a specified time)
- talent (n): it refers to Milton’s poetic talent
- death to hide (phrase): Milton fears that if he does not put to proper use the God-given talent of writing poetry, he will have to die a spiritual death
- lodged (v): to become fixed to do something
- Maker (n): here, God
- lest (conjunction): with the intention of preventing (something undesirable); to avoid the risk of
- chide (v): to speak to someone severely because they have behaved badly
- ‘Doth (v): in the past, the third person singular of the present tense of “do”
- fondly (adv.): in a loving way
- day-labour (n): the labour which can be performed only with the light of eyesight
- murmur (v): to say something in a soft quiet voice that is difficult to hear or understand
- yoke (n): it is a piece of wood placed across the necks of oxen pulling a cart or a plough
- bidding (n): the ordering or requesting of someone to do something
- o’er (preposition): over
Related:
A Rainbow of English Book Section C (Lessons for Extensive study)
Chapter 1 – The School for Sympathy
Word Meanings
- flower- beds (n): a piece of ground in a garden or park where flowers are grown
- evidently (adv): clearly
- authoritative (adj.): showing that you expect people to obey and respect you
- homesick (adj.): sad because you are away from home and you miss it
- scholastic (adj.): related to schools, teaching and academics
- application (n): the practical use of something
- illustrated (v): to explain or make something clear by using examples, pictures or diagrams
- discourse (n): speech, lecture
- originality (n): the quality of being new and interesting
- instil (v): to gradually make somebody feel or think
- thought-fulness (n): the state of thinking carefully about something
- execution (n): the act of doing a piece of work
- playground (n): an area of land where children can play
- perplexes (v): puzzles
- plight (n): difficult condition
- crutch (n): a type of stick that you put under your arm to help you walk when you have hurt your leg or foot
- hopeless (adj.): giving no hope that something or somebody will be successful or get better
- cripple (v): to cause someone to be unable to move or walk in the usual way because of an injury or illness
- lame (adj.): not able to walk properly because of an injury to the leg or foot
- blind (adj.): unable to see
- astonished (adj.): very surprised
- essential (adj.): completely necessary; that you must have or do
- in a nutshell (idiom): as brief as possible
- appreciation (n): understanding the value of something
- misfortune (n): an event, accident, etc. that brings bad luck or disaster
- deaf (adj.): unable to hear, either completely or partly
- maimed (v): to injure a person so severely that a part of their body will no longer work as it should
- dumb (adj.): unable to speak
- bandaged (v): to tie a long, narrow piece of cloth around an injury or a part of someone’s body that has been hurt
- peep (n): a quick look
- assistance (n): help or support
- educative (adj.): intended or serving to educate
- helpers (n): a person who helps
- privation (n): loss, absence, being deprived
- affliction (n): pain and suffering or something that causes it
- apparent (adv): clearly understood
- dreaded (adj.): causing fear or worry
- merry (adj.): happy or showing enjoyment
- ash-buds (n): the soft grey or black powder that is left after a substance, especially tobacco, coal, or wood
- awful (adj.): very bad or unpleasant
- guides (n): a person whose job is showing a place or a particular route to visitors
- ghastly (adj.): horrible
- troublesome (adj.): causing problems or difficulties
- shan’t (v): shall not
- frightening (adj.): making you feel afraid or shocked
- dodging (v): moving quickly and suddenly to one side in order to avoid something
- ghastly (adj.): horrible
- troublesome (adj.): causing problems or difficulties
- shan’t (v): shall not
- frightening (adj.): making you feel afraid or shocked
- dodging (v): moving quickly and suddenly to one side in order to avoid something
- terrace (n): a flat area of stone next to a restaurant or large house where people can have meals, sit in the sun, etc.
- companion (n): a person you spend a lot of time with often because you are friends or because you are travelling together
- awfully (adv): very or extremely
- decent (adj.): being of an acceptable standard; satisfactory
- gardener (n): a person who works in a garden as a job or for pleasure
- steering (n): the act of directing another to pursue a course of action
- notion (): an idea, a belief
- murmuring (v): to say something in a low quiet voice
- woe (n): sorrow, trouble
- sorrow (n): a feeling of great sadness because something bad has happened
Related:
- The School for Sympathy Summary, Explanation
- The School for Sympathy Question Answers
- The School for Sympathy Character Sketch
Chapter 2 – A Chameleon
Word Meanings
- superintendent (n): a police officer with a high position
- overcoat (n): a long thick coat that you wear in cold weather
- strides (v): walks with big steps
- sieve (n): a type of kitchen tool that has a metal or plastic net
- confiscated (v): officially taken away from a law-breaker as a punishment
- gooseberries (n): a small green fruit that is covered in small hairs and has a sour taste
- taverns (n): a place where alcohol is sold and drunk
- disconsolate (adj.): unhappy and disappointed
- brute (n): a person who is offensive and rude, and often violent
- prohibited (v): to say that something is not allowed by law
- yelping (v): crying in pain
- timber (n): wood from trees that is used for building, or trees grown for this use
- starched (adj.): to make clothes stiff by washing them with starch
- hind legs (n): the back legs of a four-legged animal
- countenances (n): faces
- protruded (v): pushed out
- sprung (v): to jump or move quickly
- row (n): a noisy quarrel
- aforementioned (adj.): mentioned before, in an earlier sentence
- rogue (adj.): behaving differently from other similar people or things, often causing damage
- goldsmith (n): a person who makes, repairs or sells articles made of gold
- muzzle (n): nose and mouth
- fore-paws (n): the front paws of a four-footed animal
- trembling (v): to shake, for example because you are cold, scared, etc.
- misery (n): great unhappiness or suffering
- terror (n): extreme fear
- firewood (n): wood used for burning on fires
- shan’t (v): shall not
- sternly (adj.): severe, or showing disapproval
- gentry (n): people belonging to a high social class
- regulations (n): an official rule that controls how something is done
- blackguard (n): a dishonest person with no sense of what is right or wrong
- cattle (n): a group of animals that includes cows, buffalo, and bison, that are often kept for their milk or meat
- strangled (v): killed by squeezing the throat
- frightfully (v): very
- hulking (adj.): large, heavy and threatening (bull-like)
- nonsensical (adj.): ridiculous; without meaning
- profound (adj.): felt or experienced very strongly or in an extreme way
- conviction (n): a very strong opinion or belief
- setters (n): large hunting dogs, high breed dogs
- thoroughbred (n): of good breed
- In a twinkling: in a matter of seconds, quickly
- yard (n): an area outside a building, usually with a hard surface and a wall or fence around it
- swine (n): an unpleasant foolish person
- cigar (n): a roll of dried tobacco leaves that people smoke
- blockhead (n): a stupid person
- hounds (n): a type of dog that is used for hunting or racing
- ecstatic (adj.): showing great enthusiasm /joy
- delighted (adj.): extremely pleased
- lively (adj.): full of energy, interest, excitement, etc.
- shivering (v): to shake slightly, especially because you are cold or scared
- threatens (v): to warn that you may hurt or punish somebody if they do not do what you want
Related:
Chapter 3 – Bholi
Word Meanings
- Cot: bed
- Backward: slow learner
- Pockmarks: spots on the skin
- Stammered: fumbled for words
- Mimicked: copy, imitate
- Prosperous: doing well, rich
- Plenty: a lot of
- Tehsildar: District collector
- Representative: spokesperson
- Consulted: discussed
- Shrunk: reduced
- Matted: untidy
- Fear-laden: full of fear
- Squatted: to sit with one’s knees bent
- Fascinated: attracted
- Orchard: land planted with fruit trees
- Stammer: fumble for words
- Sobbing: noisy crying
- Soothing: reduce pain or discomfort
- Disgrace: dishonor, shame
- Nodded: bow your head in a direction to give your approval
- Astonished: impressed, greatly surprised
- Blossomed: grow, bloom
- Throbbed: beat, pulse
- Ginning: the process of treating (ginning) the cotton
- Proposal: offer
- Certainly: definitely
- Pock marks: marks, blemishes
- Witless: fool
- Muttered: murmur
- Grocer: a person who sells house hold goods and food items
- Procession: March, Parade
- Splendour: lavishness
- Envious: jealous
- Auspicious: good, favorable
- Clad: dressed
- Garland: wreath of flowers and leaves
- Veil: cover
- Poised: calm
- Humiliate: insult
- Considerate: thoughtful
- Streaming: flowing
- Triumphant: winning
- Gambled: bet
- Downcast: low, cast down
- Prospective: would be
- Contempt: disrespect, disregard
- Struck: hit, bang
- Flung: aim, launch
- Startled: sudden shock
- Thunderstruck: shocked
- Contemptible: offensive
- Violently: strong or extreme manner
- Dumb: dull
- Heartless: unkind
- Rooted: fixed
- Grief: sorrow
- Steady: firm
- Contemplating: view, observe
Related:
Chapter 4 – The Gold Frame
Word Meanings
- mounted (v): to fix something firmly on something else
- wobbly (adj.): moving unsteadily from side to side
- drug store (n): a store that sells medicine
- concave (adj.): curved inwards
- silver-rimmed glasses (n): eyeglasses with frames made of silver metal
- timber (n): wood from trees that is used for building
- harmony (n): a state of agreement or of peaceful existence together
- fixture (n): a permanently fixed piece of furniture
- laconic (adj.): using very few words
- discouraged (v): to stop somebody doing something
- intrude (v): to go into a place or situation in which you are not wanted or not expected to be
- hunched (adj.): leaning forward with your shoulders raised, or bending your back and shoulders into a rounded shape
- medley (n): a mixture of different things
- uncoil (v): straighten or cause to straighten from a curled position
- grope (v): to feel with your hands, especially in order to find or move towards something when you cannot see
- dhoti (n): a loose piece of clothing wrapped around the lower half of the body, worn by some men from South Asia
- vigorously (adv.): in a way that is very forceful or energetic
- dislodge (v): to remove something or someone, especially by force, from a fixed position
- saints (n): a holy person
- calligraphy (n): decorative handwriting done with a special pen or brush
- Fujiyama (n): a volcano in Japan
- incongruity (n): strangeness
- pavement (n): a path with a hard surface on one or both sides of a road, that people walk on
- obstructing (v): to block a road, passage, entrance, etc.
- jostling (n): the action of knocking or pushing roughly against someone in order to move past them or get more spa
- pedestrians (n): a person who is walking, especially in an area where vehicles go
- habitual (adj.): usual or repeated
- indifference (n): lack of interest in someone or something
- volunteered (n): a person who does something, especially helping other people, willingly and without being forced or
- Sepia-brown (n): the dark reddish brown shade of photographs
- antiquity (n): an object that was created a very long time ago
- stint (v): (here) to spend a small amount of money
- portrait (n): a painting, photograph, drawing, etc. of a person
- philanthropist (n): one who gives money for charity
- inevitable (adj.): certain to happen and unable to be avoided or prevented
- whiskers (n): the hair that grows on a man’s face; beard
- cascading (n): a large amount of something that hangs down
- turban (n): a head covering for a man, worn especially by Sikhs, Muslims, and Hindus, made from a long piece of cloth that is wrapped around the top of the head many times
- dozen (n): twelve
- homage (n): deep respect and often praise shown for a person or god
- glittering (adj.): shining with a lot of small bright flashes of light
- extravagant (adj.): beyond what is reasonable
- nobility (n): honesty, courage, and kindness
- attributed (n): a quality or characteristic that someone or something has
- chanting (v): to repeat or sing a word or phrase continuously
- scripture (n): the holy writings of a religion
- disgrace (n): embarrassment and the loss of other people’s respect, or behaviour that causes this
- lacquer (n): a liquid that is used on wood or metal to give it a hard shiny surface
- enamel (n): a type of paint that forms a shiny surface when dry
- mumble (v): to speak quietly and in a way that is not clear
- hefty (adj.): strong and big
- baffled (v): to cause someone to be completely unable to understand or explain something
- enshrining (v): to contain or keep in a place that is highly admired and respected
- profusion (adj.): a large quantity
- winding creepers (n): plants with long stems that grow along the ground or twine around other objects
- lingering (v): to take longer than usual to leave or disappear
- harbour (v): to think about or feel something, usually over a long period
- imported (v): to buy or bring in products from another country
- mount (v): to fix something to a wall, in a frame
- puzzled (n): confused or difficult to understand
- soulful-looking (adj.): looking very sad
- bargain (v): to try to make someone agree to give you something that is better for you, such as a better price
- plywood (n): wood that consists of several thin layers of wood stuck together
- uncertainly (adv.): not sure of something
- punctually (adv.): on time
- unclaimed (adj.): no one has said that it belongs to them or that they should have it
- silver fish (n): a small silver coloured insect that damages clothes and other objects
- executed (v): to do or perform something, especially in a planned way
- rustic-looking (adj.): simple, natural, and rough
- enquired (v): to inquire
- rhythmic (adj.): a regular movement or beat that is repeated
- plank (n): a long, narrow, flat piece of wood
- obsessive attachment (n): an unreasonable kind of love
- scattering (v): to drop or throw things in different directions over a wide area
- stoked (v): to make people feel something more strongly
- frustrated (adj.): feeling annoyed or less confident because you cannot achieve what you want
- yielded (n): an amount of something positive
- sacred (adj.): considered to be holy and deserving respect, especially because of a connection with a god
- transfixed (adj.): unable to move
- avert (v): prevent
- spectacles (n): glasses to correct vision
- perspiration (n): sweat
- helplessly (adv.): unable to do anything to help yourself or anyone else
- venerable (adj.): respectable
- smeared (v): to spread a liquid or a thick substance over a surface
- clutching (v): to take or try to take hold of something or someone tightly, usually in fear, worry, or pain
- throbbed (n): pain that is felt as a series of regular beats
- fanatic (n): a person who is extremely interested in something, to a degree that some people find unreasonable
- devotion (n): loyalty and love or care for someone or something
- mutilated (v): damaged severely
- nightmarish (adj.): frightening
- fragile (adj.): easily damaged or broken
- inflammable (adj.): something that burns very easily
- racked (v): thought very hard about something for a long time
- exhaustion (n): the state of being extremely tired
- agitated (adj.): worried or angry
- plethora (n): a large number of
- transcendental smile (adj.): a smile that makes one look angelic
- fervent (adj.): used to describe beliefs that are strongly and sincerely felt or people who have strong and sincere beliefs
- jauntily (adv.): in a happy and confident way
- fluted (adj.): If an object, especially a round object, is fluted, its edges have many curves that go in and out
- amazed (adj.): extremely surprised
- likeness (n): the fact of being similar in appearance
- late-lamented (adj.): used for referring to someone who has died or to something that no longer exists
- gazed (v): to look at something or someone for a long time
- dismissed (v): to decide that something or someone is not important and not worth considering
- resemblance (n): the fact that two people or things look like each other or are similar in some other way
- fagged (adj.): extremely tired
- substitute (v): to use something or someone instead of another thing or person
- rummaged (v): searched for something
- panicky (v): to suddenly feel so worried or frightened that you cannot think or behave calmly or reasonably
- scurried (v): to move quickly, with small, short steps
- helter-skelter (adv.): quickly and in all directions
- unmindful (adj.): not remembering, noticing, or being careful about something
- anxiously (adv.): in a way that shows you are worried or nervous
- conspicuous (adj.): easy to see or notice
- dazzling (adj.): extremely attractive
- render (v): to cause someone or something to be in a particular state
- surveyed (v): to look at or examine all of something, especially carefully
- resplendent (adj.): having a very bright or beautiful appearance
- frame-maker (n): a person that makes and fits frames for pictures
- suspense (n): a feeling of excitement or anxiety while waiting for something uncertain to happen
- unguarded (adj.): not guarded or protected
- bungle (v): to do something wrong, in a careless or stupid way
- stiffened (v): to become firm or more difficult to bend
- deliberation (n): considering or discussing something
- flattering (adj.): making someone look or seem better or more attractive than usual
- promptness (n): the quality of doing something quickly and without delay
- exuberance (n): energy
- impatiently (adv.): in a way that shows you want something to happen as soon as possible
- showering (v): to give a lot of something to someone
- worshipful (adj.): giving someone or something great respect or admiration
- adorn (v): to add something decorative to a person or thing
- grandeur (n): the quality of being very large and special or beautiful
- sanctum (n): a holy place, a private room where somebody can go and not be disturbed
- hoax (n): an act intended to make somebody believe something that is not true
- reverential look (adj.): a look of great respect and admiration
- benevolent (adj.): kind and helpful
- vanished (v): to disappear suddenly
- indignantly (adv.): in an angry way, because of something that is wrong or not fair
- splashed (v): to scatter liquid or to cause liquid to scatter through the air or onto something
- tremendous (adj.): very large or great
Related:
- The Barber’s Trade Union Summary, Explanation
- The Barber’s Trade Union Question Answers
- The Barber’s Trade Union Character Sketch
Chapter 5- The Barber’s Trade Union
Word Meanings
- peculiar (adj.): unusual or strange
- exploit (v): a brave, exciting or interesting act
- exaggerated (v): to make something seem larger, better, worse, etc. than it really is
- notion (n): an idea, a belief or an understanding of something
- egotism (n): thinking only about yourself and considering yourself better and more important than other people
- disconcerting (adj.): making someone feel uncertain and uncomfortable or worried
- rag (n): clothes that are very old and torn
- distended-bellied body (n): body with swollen stomach
- wallowed (v): to roll oneself about
- mire (n): deep mud
- delectation (n): enjoyment or entertainment
- condescended (v): came down from one’s superior position
- wasps (n): a small black and yellow flying insect that can sting
- embodiment (n): someone or something that represents a quality or an idea exactly
- intricate (adj.): having many small parts or details put together in a complicated way
- apprenticed (v): worked for some time to learn some particular job
- hereditary (adj.): passed on from parent to child
- reciting (v): to say aloud a piece of writing, especially a poem or a list, from memory
- rote (n): learning by repeating without understanding
- resented (v): to feel angry about something because you think it is unfair
- scholarship (n): an amount of money that is given to a person who has passed an exam or won a competition, in order to help pay for their studies
- dissuaded (v): to persuade somebody not to do something
- innate (adj.): quality that one has when one is born
- forefathers (n): a member of your family, especially a man, who lived a long time ago
- superiority (n): the fact that one person or thing is better, stronger, etc. than another
- ashamed (adj.): feeling guilty or embarrassed about somebody/something or because of something you have done
- conglomeration (n): a mixture of different things that are found together
- subedar (n): (in the Indian or Pakistani armies) a mid-level junior commissioned officer
- plague (n): any infectious disease that spreads quickly and kills many people
- seldom (adv.): not often; rarely
- foot- rest (n): a support for the feet or a foot, used when sitting
- carriage (n): a vehicle with wheels that is pulled by horses
- trudge (v): a long and tiring walk
- absolved (v): to say formally that somebody does not have to take responsibility for something
- ordeal (n): a very unpleasant or difficult experience
- flogged (v): to hit somebody hard several times with a stick or a long thin piece of leather (whip) as a punishment
- bazaars (n): a market
- sahibs (n): a polite title or form of address for a man
- chaprasis (n): a junior office worker who carries messages
- phaeton (n): a light four-wheeled open carriage drawn by four horses
- emoluments (n): compensation for a job which is usually monetary
- rig-out (n): an outfit of clothes
- flourished (v): to wave something in the air so that people will notice it
- dignified (adj.): behaving in a calm, serious way that makes other people respect you
- silhouette (n): the dark outline or shape of a person or an object that can be seen against a light background
- marvellous (adj.): very good; wonderful
- admiringly (adv.): a feeling of liking and respecting somebody/something very much
- self-conscious (adj.): too worried about what other people think about you
- strutted (v): stood or walked stiffly
- cow-dung cakes (n): a flat, dried cake made from cow dung and hay, used primarily as a traditional fuel source for cooking and religious ceremonies
- heroic (adj.): very brave
- burly (adj.): large, well-built, and muscular
- lavatory (n): a toilet
- marrow (n): bone marrow
- defile (v): damage the purity or appearance of
- swine (n): a very unpleasant person
- befitting (adj.): appropriate to the occasion or purpose
- new- fangled notions (n): new, often modern or unfamiliar ideas, beliefs
- flushed (adj.): with a hot red face
- sahukar (n): a moneylender
- tuft knot (n): a sacred knot of hair worn by many Hindu men
- crestfallen (adj.): sad because of a recent disappointment
- mishaps (n): a small accident or piece of bad luck that does not have serious results
- summoned (v): to order a person to come to a place
- apparel (n): clothes, especially those worn on a formal occasion
- rogue (adj.): to start behaving in a way that is not normal or expected
- flurry (n): any sdden activity or a stir
- hovel (n): an open shed for sheltering cattle
- cantankerous (adj.): given to or marked by an ill-tempered nature
- bantering (v): involving conversation that is funny and not serious
- humiliations (n): to reduce someone to a lower position in one’s own eyes or others’ eyes
- hypocrite (n): a person who pretends to have moral standards or opinions which they do not really have
- whistled (v): to make a musical or a high sound by forcing air out between your lips or by blowing a whistle
- evade (v): to manage to escape from or to avoid meeting somebody/something
- reproaches (v): to tell somebody that they have done something wrong
- provoked (v): to cause a particular feeling or reaction
- orthodox (adj.): closely following the old, traditional beliefs, ceremonies, etc.
- strike (n): a period of time when people refuse to go to work, usually because they want more money or better working conditions
- gambling (n): the activity of risking money on the result of something, such as a game or horse race, hoping to make money
- overcoat (n): a long thick coat that you wear in cold weather
- peg (n): a protrusion used to hang things on
- elongated (adj.): extensive in length
- negotiated (v): to talk to somebody in order to decide or agree about something
- revelation (n): something that is made known, that was secret or unknown before, especially something surprising
- reckless (adj.): not thinking about possible bad or dangerous results that could come from your actions
- confidential (adj.): meant to be kept secret
- impatience (n): the feeling of wanting something to happen as soon as possible
- baboon (n): (here) an uncivilized person
- peasants (n): a person who owns or rents a small piece of land on which they grow food and keep animals in order to feed their family
- congregated (v): to come together in a crowd or group
- upstart (n): a person who has suddenly risen in rank and importance but behaves as if they are more important than other people, in a way that is annoying
- thrashing (n): the action of hitting somebody/something many times with a stick, etc. as a punishment
- discomfiture (n): confusion
- earnestly (adv.): in a serious and determined way
- mounted (adj.): to go up something or up on to something
- rump (n): buttock
- saddle (n): a seat on a bicycle or motorbike
- precariously (adv.): in a risky manner
- tottering (v): to stand or move in a way that is not steady, as if you are going to fall
- acquired (v): to obtain or buy something
- baffled (adj.): to cause someone to be completely unable to understand or explain something
- scum (n): dirty outside layer
- jowls (n): the loose skin under the jaw
- seedy (adj.): dirty and unpleasant
- leper (n): a person who has leprosy which is a disease of the nerves and skin
- tobacco (n): the substance that people smoke in cigarettes and pipes
- impetuous (adj.): impulsive, rash
- impish (adj.): mischievous
- beavers (n): a bearded man
- banyan tree (n): an Indian tree with branches that put out roots which grow downwards till they reach the ground
- unkempt (adj.): not well cared for
- shabby (adj.): dressed in an untidy way
- borne (v): to tolerate
- reconciliation (n): the process of making two people or groups of people friendly again
- prosperity (n): the state of being successful, especially with money
- anna (n): a former monetary unit of India and Pakistan, equal to one sixteenth of a rupee
- conceived (v): developed an idea
- wayside (n): the edge of a road
- gift of the gab (phrase): the quality of talking on trivial issues
- trade unions (n): an organization for people who all do the same type of work. Trade unions try to get better pay and working conditions for their members
Related:
- The Barber’s Trade Union Summary, Explanation
- The Barber’s Trade Union Question Answers
- The Barber’s Trade Union Character Sketch
Chapter 6- The Bull beneath the Earth
Word Meanings
- conveniently (adv.): in a way that is suitable for your purposes and needs and causes the least difficulty
- pucca metalled road (n): a road with a permanent, hard surface made of durable materials such as cement or concrete
- impulse (n): a sudden strong wish to do something
- tonga (n): a light horse-drawn two-wheeled vehicle used in India
- pony (n): a small horse
- laboriously (n): in a way that needs a lot of time and effort
- regiment (n): a roup of soldiers in the army who are commanded by a particular officer
- regimental centre (n): the administrative and training hub for a military regiment, often serving as its headquarters
- battalion (n): a large unit of soldiers that forms part of a larger unit in the army
- burma (n): a country in Southeast Asia, whose official name is Myanmar
- havildar (n): a soldier or police officer corresponding to a sergeant
- naik (n): an army corporal in certain southern Asian countries
- inquiring (v): ask for information from someone
- hearty (adj.): showing friendly feelings
- agreeable (adj.): pleasant, nice
- gram parcher (n): a person who roasts chickpeas and other grains
- lively (adj.): full of energy, interest, excitement, etc.
- crack-shot (n): one who never misses aim
- precision (n): the quality of being perfect and accurate
- uncannily (adv.): in a strange manner
- ravaging (v): to damage something very badly; to destroy something
- comrades (n): a person who fights on the same side as you in a war
- assuaged (v): to make an unpleasant feeling less severe
- lacerated (adj.): torn
- machine-gun (n): a gun that fires bullets very quickly and continuously
- magazine (n): a part of a gun in which cartridges are stored
- sufficed (v): to be enough for somebody/something
- suppleness (n): ability to bend and move parts of your body easily into different positions
- gymnasium (n): a room or building equipped for gymnastics, games, and other physical exercise
- gymnastics (n): physical exercises that are done indoors, often using special equipment such as bars and ropes
- the vicinity (n): the area around a particular place
- mufti (n): plain or ordinary clothes, especially when worn by one who normally wears, or has long worn, a military or other uniform
- envious (adj.): wanting something that somebody else has
- gallantry (n): courage, especially in battle
- arouse (v): to cause a particular reaction in people
- gurudwaras (n): a Sikh place of worship
- countryside (n): the land and scenery of a rural area
- engrossed (adj.): so interested or involved in something that you give it all your attention
- porch (n): a small covered area at the entrance to a house
- preoccupation (n): the state of thinking and/or worrying continuously about something
- perturbed (adj.): became anxious
- impatient (adj.): wanting something to happen soon
- disposition (n): the natural qualities of a person’s character
- queer (adj.): strange or unusual
- persuaded (v): to make somebody do something by giving them good reasons
- courtyard (n): an area of ground, without a roof, that has walls or buildings around it,
- unfastened (v): to release or open something that is fixed or closed
- buffalo-calf (n): a baby buffalo
- trough (n): a long narrow open container for animals to eat or drink from
- mare (n): a female horse
- chaff (n): the husks of corn or other seed
- cartload (n): the amount held by a cart
- fodder (n): food that is given to farm animals
- filial (adj.): connected with the way children behave towards their parents
- cordiality (n): behaviour that is friendly, but formal and polite
- quivered (v): to shake slightly
- majhails (n): people from the Majha region of Punjab, which is historically located in the central part of the region, split between India and Pakistan
- retrace your footsteps (phrase): to go back to a place in the same way that you came
- canal water (n): a long, thin stretch of water that is artificially made either for boats to travel along or for taking water from one area to another
- prolonged (adj.): continuing for a long time
- interval (n): a period of time between two events
- ceaselessly (adv.): in a way that does not stop, or seems to have no end
- tirelessly (adv.): with great effort or energy
- pierce (v): to make a small hole in something
- stifle (v): to prevent a feeling from being expressed
- acquaintance (n): a person that you know but who is not a close friend
- mutter (v): to speak in a low, quiet and often angry voice that is difficult to hear
- sugarcane (n): a tall plant with thick stems that sugar is made from
- charpoy (n): a bed used especially in India consisting of a frame strung with tapes or light rope
- mourning (n): great sadness felt because someone has died
- numbness (n): unable to feel
- thaw (v): a situation when the relationship becomes less formal and friendly
- pathetic (adj.): pitiful
- bar area (n): a cultural and geographical area in present-day Pakistan, situated between the Jhelum and Sutlej rivers, between the Jhelum and Chenab rivers, and between the Ravi and Sutlej rivers
- forts (n): a strong building that is used for military defence
- tombs (n): a large place, usually built of stone under the ground, where the body of an important person is buried
- enshrined (v): to contain or keep something as if in a holy place
- deathless (adj.): living or lasting forever; immortal
- invaders (n): an army or country that uses force to enter and take control of another country
- benevolent (adj.): kind, helpful and generous
- oppressive (adj.): causing people to feel worried and uncomfortable
Related:
- The Bull beneath the Earth Summary, Explanation
- The Bull beneath the Earth Question Answers
- The Bull beneath the Earth Character Sketch
Also See: