"Florid"

The man, whose attire was as florid as Hammett's Joel Cairo, took care that his clothing should be noticed by everyone in his social circle at the party.

Official Definition

"Cormorant"

In The Maltese Falcon the cormorant Gutman has a gluttonous appetite for both food and money.

Official Definition

Yegg

Dashiell Hammett creates some interesting yeggs in The Maltese Falcon. Still, I believe his best characterization goes toward the novel's protagonist, Sam Spade.

Official Definition