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.
