Stuntboy, in the Meantime Glossary

Stuntboy, in the Meantime Glossary

portico

The small, roofed area at the entrance of a building which serves the same purpose as a porch entrance to a house.

fret

To worry or agonize over a situation.

anxiety

A state of excessive nervousness, fear, distress, and emotional oppressed stimulated by an apprehension over how a specific cause of worry will be resolved.

taunt

To provoke another person through a contemptuous remark or action.

shenanigans

Mischievous behavior often taking the form of pranks or horseplay.

meditate

To assume a state of intense contemplation unencumbered by external obstruction.

mater

A Spanish word meaning mother.

pater

A Spanish word meaning father.

frantically

Describing something done in a state of panic or extreme energy.

frazzled

In a state of overstressed exhaustion.

magnitude

Of enormous size, power, or importance.

funk

A foul odor.

static

White noise accompanying transmission of communication which makes it difficult or impossible to understand what is being said.

portal

A hidden or secret entryway capable of transporting one between distant locations instantaneously.

superintendent

Within the context of an apartment building, the superintendent—often known simply as the super—is usually considered the day-to-day manager in charge of dealing with resident complaints.

tectonic

Geological term related to the seismic activity deep in the ground which produces earthquakes.

teleportation

The theoretical ability to move instant from one location to another without actually physically moving in the space which separates the locations.

stealth

Containing an element of sneakiness, or done with clandestine intent.

venture

To launch off on a risky or perilous journey or pursuit of difficult task.

meantime

The interval which passes between two different events. In the book, however, the word is also used metaphorically to describe the “mean time” during which Portico’s parents argue and he is instructed to go elsewhere.

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