Vocabulary Words: A Modest Proposal

something pledged as security for repayment of a loan.

Literary technique in which behaviors or institutions are ridiculed.

Playfully amusing and urbane

(of an action) convenient and practical, although possibly improper or immoral.

the first principles of a subject.

 one's meaning by using language that signifies the opposite, for humorous effect.

is the condition of submitting to the legitimate influence of one's superior or superiors

a burden or impediment.

Provokes a darker laughter. It is often bitter, or even angry, and criticizes corruption.

food and drink regarded as a source of strength; nourishment.

extreme scarcity of food.