Cheaper By the Dozen Glossary

Cheaper By the Dozen Glossary

bedlam

A state of anarchy and chaos.

composure

The state of one's calmness in the face of situations capable of elevating anxiety.

incredulously

Filled with skepticism and disbelief.

supplication

The act of pleading or begging for something.

livid

A state of particularly excitable anger, usually directed toward a specific object of ire.

deportment

The manner in which displays behavior in public.

calliope

The musical instrument reponsible for what one generally describes as "circus music."

tyke

A young child.

penultimate

Next to last.

dire

Characterizing circumstances with the potential to quickly become disastrous.

apportion

To officially divide a larger entity into several small entities for the purpose of distribution.

reverie

A finite period spent in a state of contemplation not unlike daydreaming.

Victrola

That very old-fashioned original form of record player featuring a crank and a large funnel-shaped horn through the sound was amplified.

surreptitiously

Done in a furtive or sneaky manner where the inherent secrecy implies an intent of a criminal or unethical dimensions.

blanch

The process of whitening or lightening an object.

genteel

Observing rules of decorum, etiquette and polite behavior toward others.

introvert

Someone who is shy and awkward around strangers and is characterized by withdrawing from conventional social interactions.

belligerent

Aggressive and rowdy.

veracity

The determination of truthfulness.

exemplary

A standout performance; highly regarded as an indication of near-perfection.

ruefully

With a profound sense of regret.

interminable

Never-ending or the sensation one has that something very boring is never going to come to an end.

pompously

Done in an arrogant manner suggesting a sense of unwarranted superiority that demands undeserved respect and admiration.

boutonniere

The small flower used as a fashion adornment by slipping the stem through the small hole in the lapel of a coat or jacket.

intrepid

Brave and fearless with the suggestion of the possession of supply of courage than of common sense.

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