I for Isobel

I for Isobel Glossary

Boarding House

A residence where lodgers tend to rent and occupy separate rooms but share other elements of life, such as meals and recreation

Communist

A supporter of a political philosophy that favors the disappearance of class distinctions and collective ownership of goods and resources, as opposed to private property

Compulsory

Required or impossible to resist; involuntary

Compunction

Remorse or regret, often in reaction to a wrong that has just been committed

Cringing

Cowering in embarrassment

Eccentricities

Oddities or quirks

Exasperated

Annoyed, irritated, or fed up

Exile

A state of being cast out or sent away

Flabby

Fat or thick, often involving weakness and folds of skin

Luminous

Literally bright or brilliant; giving off light in a striking manner

Plaits

A somewhat outdated term for braids, especially braids of hair

Plight

A state of misfortune or a persistent disadvantage

Rage

To yell and be angry

Russet

Rust-like or reddish-brown in coloration

Scaffold

A platform where executions (often by hanging) occur

Solicitor

A legal professional or attorney; someone who covers an area requesting support or "soliciting" for a cause

Subdued

Reserved and subtle; not displaying strong emotion

Talisman

An item or charm, often designed to ward off evil and bring about good luck

Tempo

The quality of speed or quickness, particularly as related to music

Wharf

A dockside

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