CommerceReferred to often in the book as it is the domain of the leading character, Paul Dombey. It signifies trade or business activities.
Definitions:
The activity of buying and selling."Dombey's main interest was in his world of commerce."
Social dealings between people."Their friendly commerce made the journey pleasant."
AristocracyClass of people considered superior by birth, often associated with Mr Dombey's aspirations.
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A class of persons holding exceptional rank and privileges."Mr Dombey longed for his son to join the aristocracy."
HeiressA female recipient of an inheritance, relevant to major character Florence Dombey.
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A woman who is entitled to a heritage upon the death of its owner."Florence became the heiress of her father's wealth."
PillageTo strip ruthlessly of money or goods by open violence, often referring to Mr Carker's behaviour.
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To rob of goods by open force, typically in warfare."Carker intended to pillage the company of its assets."
MournfulFeeling, expressing, or inducing sadness, often describing the general state of characters.
Definitions:
Feeling or expressing deep sorrow."Mrs Chick had a mournful look after the loss."
MaladyA disease or ailment, sometimes referring to Paul Jr’s ill health.
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A disease or ailment."Paul Jr's malady caused the family great concern."
DisparityA great difference, potentially describing the differences between the Dombey siblings.
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A great difference."There was a large disparity between Florence and her brother's treatment."
PedigreeLineage or heritage, meaningful to the Dombey family pride.
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The record of descent of an animal, showing it to be purebred."The Dombeys had a long and proud pedigree."
The history or lineage of a person or family."Paul's pedigree was of great importance to Mr Dombey."
DecayTo deteriorate, both metaphorically and literally — with reference to characters, relationships, and physical structures.
Definitions:
To rot or decompose through the action of bacteria."The old Dombey house was starting to decay."
To decline in health, quality, or vigor."Mr Dombey's business began to decay after his bad decisions."
DesolateDeserted, often used in describing emotional and physical states.
Definitions:
Deserted, gloomy, or dismal."The Dombey mansion was big and desolate."