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Uncle Tom’s Cabin vocabulary
333 vocabulary words, including people, places, music, artists, etc.
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peroration
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► definition
Definition:the ending of a speech, intended to inspire enthusiasm---The explosion of an oratorical rocket. It dazzles, but to an observer having the wrong kind of nose its most conspicuous peculiarity is the smell of the several kinds of powder used in preparing it.*Ambrose Bierce. The Devil's Dictionary*Bierce is referring to the Confederates use of urine in making gunpowder
► uses
Uses:
He had proved himself brilliantly under pressure, and he concluded the briefing with an inspiring peroration that every instinct told him was a masterful exhibition of eloquent tact and sublety.
Joseph Heller. Catch-22, p.329 (1961)
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'By the simple exercise of our will we can exert a power for good practically unbounded,' &c., &c. From that point he soared and took me with him. The peroration was magnificent, though difficult to remember, you know. It gave me the notion of an exotic Immensity ruled by an august Benevolence. It made me tingle with enthusiasm. This was the unbounded power of eloquence—of words—of burning noble words.
Joseph Conrad. The Heart of Darkness
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This peroration annoyed the President; it was almost impertinence on the part of a mere lieutenant to tell a commander what was the extent of his powers.
Cecil Scott Forester. The African Queen, p.162 (1935)
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He said, with exceeding gravity, 'Pardon me,' and proceeded, with a mixture of the lowest spirits and the most intense enjoyment, to the peroration of his letter.
Charles Dickens. David Copperfield (1850)
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