Vocabulary Exam Review: Chapters 8-13 of Old Yeller

What is the best definition of "nimble"?

• Clumsy and slow

• Quick and light in movement

• Lazy and unmotivated

• Extremely strong

Answer explanation

The term "nimble" means quick and light in movement, which aligns with the correct choice. The other options describe characteristics opposite to this definition.

What does "lethal" mean?

• Harmless

• Deadly

• Friendly

• Careless

Answer explanation

The term 'lethal' means deadly, indicating something that can cause death or is capable of killing. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Deadly', as it directly aligns with the definition of 'lethal'.

If someone is "vigilant," they are...

• Careless and distracted

• Watchful and alert

• Unaware of their surroundings

• Ignoring everything around them

Answer explanation

If someone is "vigilant," they are watchful and alert, actively paying attention to their surroundings. This contrasts with being careless, distracted, or unaware, which are the opposite of vigilance.

What does it mean to "tote" something?

• To carry or haul it

• To throw it away

• To look at it closely

• To purchase it

Answer explanation

To "tote" something means to carry or haul it. This definition aligns with the correct answer choice, as it emphasizes the action of transporting an item rather than discarding, examining, or purchasing it.

Which word means "unsteady or wavering in movement"?

• Dandy

• Staggering

• Docile

• Plight

Answer explanation

The word 'staggering' means unsteady or wavering in movement, making it the correct choice. The other options do not convey this meaning: 'dandy' refers to a stylish person, 'docile' means easily managed, and 'plight' refers to a difficult situation.

The stray dog looked weak and ____, barely able to walk.

• puny

• strong

• healthy

• energetic

Answer explanation

The word 'puny' means weak or small, which fits the context of the stray dog looking weak and barely able to walk. The other options like 'strong', 'healthy', and 'energetic' contradict the description.

The hiker avoided the snake to ______ being bitten.

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'avert' because it means to prevent or avoid something undesirable, in this case, being bitten by the snake. The sentence implies the hiker took action to avoid the negative outcome.

The soldiers faced a dangerous ______ when they ran out of supplies.

• plight

• situation

• dilemma

• challenge

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'plight' because it specifically refers to a dangerous or difficult situation, which fits the context of soldiers running out of supplies. 'Situation', 'dilemma', and 'challenge' are less specific.

The young colt was ______ and easy to train.

• docile

• stubborn

• aggressive

• wild

Answer explanation

The word 'docile' means calm and easy to train, which fits the context of the young colt being easy to train. The other options, 'stubborn', 'aggressive', and 'wild', suggest difficult behavior, making 'docile' the correct choice.

What is the meaning of 'Vigilant'?

• Alert

• Sleepy

• Careless

• Indifferent

Answer explanation

'Vigilant' means being alert and watchful, ready to notice any potential danger or problems. The correct choice is 'Alert', as it directly reflects the meaning of being attentive and aware.