An archaism refers to a word, phrase, or style of language that is no longer in common use but is intentionally employed to evoke a sense of the past or a specific historical period. It represents linguistic elements that have become obsolete in contemporary speech.

The word 'hackneyed' is derived from the idea of a horse that is overused and therefore common or worn out. In literary and critical contexts, it refers to phrases, ideas, or arguments that have been used so frequently that they have lost their original impact, freshness, and significance. It is synonymous with being trite, clichéd, or banal, indicating a lack of creative thought in the speaker's argument.

The term 'dilapidation' refers to a state of disrepair, ruin, or physical deterioration resulting from neglect. In literary descriptions of settings, it is frequently used to characterize structures like fences or buildings that have fallen into a state of decay over time due to a lack of maintenance or abandonment.

A proverb is a concise, traditional saying that expresses a perceived truth or offers practical advice. 'You can't have your cake and eat it too' is a well-known proverb illustrating the impossibility of possessing two mutually exclusive options simultaneously, reflecting a common human experience.

An altruist is defined as a person who has a selfless concern for the well-being of others. The term is derived from the French 'altruisme,' emphasizing the practice of disinterested and selfless concern for the welfare of others, essentially acting as a lover of mankind.

The term 'galligaskins' refers to a style of loose, wide-fitting breeches or hose that were popular in the 16th and 17th centuries. In literature, the term is often used to describe the attire of commoners, laborers, or children, emphasizing a practical or somewhat comical appearance. It reflects the evolution of fashion and the specific vocabulary used to describe historical clothing styles in narrative prose.

In this archaic or literary context, 'mow' (often spelled 'moue') refers to making a grimace or a distorted facial expression, typically to show contempt or mockery. It is derived from Middle French and is distinct from the agricultural term 'to mow' (cutting grass). The context of 'growl and mow' suggests a display of aggressive, animalistic, or mocking behavior by a crowd.

The term 'prong' refers to a slender, pointed projection or a spike, often found on tools like forks or antlers. In a literary or descriptive context, it is used to describe something that extends outward from a main body, often serving a functional or symbolic purpose related to sharpness or division.