| A | B |
|---|
| Cabalistic | Mysterious, occult, or secret. |
| Machination | A crafty scheme or plot (used regarding Chillingworth). |
| Esoteric | Understood by only small number of people. |
| Vestige | A trace of something that is disappearing or no longer exists. |
| Malleable | Adaptable; capable of being shaped. |
| Loquacity | Talkativeness; chattiness. |
| Petulant | Moved to or showing sudden, impatient irritation. |
| Sedulous | Diligent in application or attention; persevering. |
| Imbibe | To drink or absorb (ideas or liquids). |
| Usurp | To seize or take over without right. |
| Propinquity | Nearness in place or time; proximity. |
| Retribution | Punishment given in return for a wrong. |
| Expiation | The act of atoning for sin or wrongdoing. |
| Inextricable | Incapable of being disentangled or untied. |
| Somnambulism | Sleepwalking (referring to Dimmesdale) |
| Portent | An omen or indication of something momentous. |
| Behest | An earnest command or request. |
| Rankle | To cause persistent keen irritation or resentment. |
| Inimical | Unfriendly, hostile (describing Chillingworth). |
| Palliated | Relieved or lessened without curing. |
| Erudite | Ms. DeSilvia |
| Veneration | Great respect or reverence. |
| Scurrilous | Grossly or obscenely abusive. |
| Obviate | To anticipate and prevent; to render unnecessary. |
| Ethereal | Light, airy, or tenuous; delicate. |
