Vocabulary Words for Act 1 of The Diary of Anne Frank

Front

Capitulation

Back

Surrender or giving up after resistance. Act 1 begins after the 'capitulation' of the Dutch to the Nazis, which forces Anne’s family into hiding.

Front

Mercurial

Back

Changing moods quickly and unpredictably. Anne is described as mercurial, especially in Act 1, as her energy and emotions often shift suddenly.

Front

Unabashed

Back

Not embarrassed or shy. Anne is often unabashed in her opinions and actions, even when the adults find her behavior bold or unusual.

Front

Conspicuous

Back

Easy to notice. The Frank family hides in the Secret Annex, avoiding being conspicuous to ensure they are not found by the Nazis.

Front

Indignant

Back

Feeling angry about something unfair. Anne feels indignant in Act 1 when she’s told not to speak out or is criticized by the adults.

Front

Loathe

Back

To strongly dislike. Anne often says she loathes certain restrictions of hiding, like being told to stay quiet and still during the day.

Front

Makeshift

Back

A temporary or substitute solution. In Act 1, the families create makeshift sleeping arrangements and a bathroom area in the Annex.

Front

Reproachful

Back

Expressing disapproval or blame. Mrs. Frank often gives Anne reproachful looks when she feels Anne’s behavior is too outspoken or childish.

Front

Subdue

Back

To hold back or control. In Act 1, everyone in the Annex has to subdue their movements and voices to avoid being heard by anyone outside.

Front

Fortify

Back

To strengthen or make more secure. Mr. Frank fortifies the spirit of everyone in the Annex, encouraging them to stay hopeful despite the danger.