5th Grade Word List - Literature

roe

n. a small Eurasian deer which lacks a visible tail and has a reddish summer coat that turns grayish in winter

stag

n. a male deer

bough

n. any of the larger branches of a tree

mishap

n. an instance of misfortune
n. an unpredictable outcome that is unfortunate

precipice

n. a very steep cliff

hob

n. a metal shelf next to a fireplace where pans were heated

perch

n. support consisting of a branch or rod that serves as a resting place (especially for a bird)

bleat

v. produce the sound made by a sheep or goat

flutter

v. move along rapidly and lightly; skim or dart

clumsy

a. not skilful in the way you deal with or express something

thaw

v. (cause to) change from a solid, frozen state to a liquid or soft one, because of an increase in temperature

pry

v. open, move, or lift something by putting one end of a tool under it and pushing down on the other end

wither

v. (to cause) to become weak and dry and decay

fiery

a. like or suggestive of fire

wedge

n. a piece of something, like food or wood, in the shape of a triangle

sleek

a. having a smooth, gleaming surface reflecting light

grumble

v. make complaining remarks or noises under one's breath

uncouth

a. lacking refinement or cultivation or taste

feeble

a. lacking bodily or muscular strength or vitality

reed

n. any of various types of tall, stiff plants like grasses growing together in groups near water

rush

n. a plant like grass that grows in or near water

toadstool

n. a mushroom, esp. a poisonous one

disfigure

v. mar or spoil the appearance of

booty

n. goods or money obtained illegally

gape

v. look with amazement; look stupidly

morsel

n. a small amount of solid food; a mouthful

heed

n. paying particular notice (as to children or helpless people)