“The Gift of the Magi” by O. Henry
Vocabulary Word List With Definitions
(In order of appearance in the story) 1.  imputation – guilt
2.  parsimony – extreme unwillingness to spend money; being frugal
3.  instigates – brings about
4.  predominating – being the greatest or strongest element
5.  subsiding – becoming less intense or severe
6.  mendicancy squad – police who arrest beggars and homeless people
7.  vestibule – lobby or hallway
8.  appertaining – relating to; concerning
9.  prosperity – the state of being wealthy
10.  sterling – of excellence or value
11.  pier-glass – a mirror placed to fill wall space between windows
12.  depreciate – to lose value or take away value
13.  cascade – a small waterfall
14.  garment – an item of clothing
15.  rosy wings – happily
16.  ransacking – go through hurriedly, causing damage
17. chaste – unused; pure
18.  meretricious – fake; something that seems to have value but does not
19.  intoxication – the state of being drunk or not in one’s right mind
20. prudence – cautiousness; wisdom
21.  ravages – severely damaged effects
22. truant – one who skips school or disobeys
23. setter – a hunting dog
24. sentiments – attitudes; feelings or emotions
25. laboriously – requiring long, hard work
26. patent – obvious
27. idiocy – extremely stupid behavior
28. enfolded – gathered in his arms; surrounded
29. discreet scrutiny – very careful observation
30. inconsequential – not important
31.  assertion – statement of fact
32. illuminated – highlighted; clarified or explained
33.  tresses – long locks of a woman’s hair
34. adorned – to make more beautiful
35.  coveted – treasured; desired
36.  singed – to burn lightly
37. ardent – enthusiastic or passionate
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