The Secret Garden Vocabulary Test

Cholera is a deadly disease caused by bad food and water sources. It is a bacterial infection that affects the intestines and can cause severe diarrhea and dehydration. It is transmitted through contaminated food and water, and can spread quickly in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene practices. Cholera outbreaks can be devastating, leading to high mortality rates if not treated promptly. Therefore, in the given context, when the cholera came, everyone was too frightened to think of Mary because they were likely preoccupied with the fear of contracting the disease and the urgency to find clean food and water sources.

A governess is a woman who is employed to educate and train children in a private home. Mrs. Sowerby believed that Mary needed to become stronger before she could have a governess again, implying that Mary needed to improve her physical and emotional well-being before resuming her education and training under a governess.

The word "sallow" is used to describe someone who has a yellowish or sickly complexion. This implies that Mary's appearance is not healthy or vibrant, but rather pale and unwell.

To do something "stoutly" means to do it boldly with strength and purpose. In this context, Dickon is expressing his determination and commitment to come every day to help Mary in the garden. He is not hesitant or reluctant, but rather resolute and enthusiastic about his decision.

The word "indifference" refers to a lack of interest or concern. In the given context, Mrs. Medlock appears to be uncomfortable or bothered by Mary's lack of interest or concern towards her new home. This suggests that Mary is not showing any enthusiasm or curiosity about her new living situation, which is causing Mrs. Medlock to feel discomforted.

Brocade is a thick, heavy, and expensive material that is known for its raised pattern. It is often used for luxurious upholstery, curtains, and clothing. The raised pattern on brocade is created through a weaving technique that adds texture and visual interest to the fabric. This type of fabric is commonly associated with elegance and is often used in formal settings or for special occasions.

The correct answer is "exercising power in an overly proud way". This is because the sentence states that Mary was imperious as she led Dickon to the door of the secret garden, implying that she was displaying a sense of superiority and dominance in her actions.

Gorse is defined as a very spiney, dense evergreen shrub with golden flowers. Mary smelled the scent of gorse on the wind.