Part of Speech: Verb

Definition:

1. to shout derisively at; taunt 
2. to treat with scoffs or derision; mock.

Source: Dictionary.com

Found in America by Claude McKay line 10

“I stand within her walls with not a shred/Of terror, malice, not a word of jeer.”

Knowing the definition of jeer helped me understand the two lines quoted above. The poem speaks of a love/hate relationship with America. In these lines the speaker is being positive in saying that they have nothing bad to say, no judgement.

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: active strength or force.

Source: Dictionary.com

Found in America by Claude McKay line 5

“Her vigor flows like tides into my blood,/Giving me strength erect against her hate.”

Knowing the definition of vigor helped me understand the analogy the author was explaining. The author was animating the strength the country gave him.

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: any contest between two persons or parties.

Source: Dictionary.com

Found in What We Miss by Sarah Manguso line 7

“Failure is more like this than like duels and marathons.”

Knowing the definition of duel helped me understand the concept the speaker was talking about in the poem. The speaker was comparing different types of failures. The kind of failure the speaker is talking about is different than failing at a duel or marathon.