“Let this pernicious hour Stand aye accursed in the calendar!” What does pernicious mean? A. symbolic B. wicked; harmful C. magical D. powerful; important

B. wicked; harmful

"Pernicious" means having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way. Therefore, when someone refers to a "pernicious hour," they are indicating a time that is considered wicked or brings harm. The term does not mean symbolic, magical, or powerful/important. In the context of the quote, the speaker wishes that the harmful hour would always remain cursed in the calendar.

The word "pernicious" comes from the Latin root "perniciosus," which means destructive or deadly. It can be used in various contexts to describe not only hours or moments that are harmful but also actions, habits, or influences that could potentially be damaging either on a physical, moral, or societal level. When used in literature, 'pernicious' often adds a dramatic and negative connotation, hinting at an underlying threat or malevolence. Understanding words like "pernicious" and their contexts can provide a deeper comprehension of language nuances and help with interpreting the tone and intent behind literature and speeches.