“The Gift of the Magi” Vocabulary

Agile  Adjective  Quick and well-coordinated in movement; active; marked by an ability to think quickly

Assertion  Noun  A positive statement or declaration, often without support or reason

Cascade  Noun  A waterfall descending over a steep, rocky surface

Chronicle  Noun  A chronological record of events; a history

Coveted  Adjective/Verb  Something desired wrongfully, inordinately, or without due regard for the rights of others

Inconsequential  Adjective  Of little or no importance; insignificant; trivial; irrelevant

Instigate  Verb  To urge, provoke, or incite to some action or course

Predominating  Adjective  The stronger or leading element or force; appearing more noticeable or imposing than something else

Prudence  Noun  Quality or fact of being wise in practical affairs; caution with regard to practical matters

Vestibule  Noun  A passage, hall, or antechamber between the outer door and the interior of a house or building  A small entrance hall or lobby Wal-mart has a vestibule in which the keep the buggies, ice machines, and handicap carts.