Chapter X · Chapter 10

used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one

From this reading Although an only daughter, I had never been much caressed at home--I was always so troublesome that they loved me best at a distance.

in actual fact

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

inflected form of “admit” — declare to be true or admit the existence or reality or truth of

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

a positive feeling of liking

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

with affection

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

past form of “afford” — be able to spare or give up

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

filled with fear or apprehension

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

touching and pressing; in opposition to

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

in spite of the fact that

From this reading Although an only daughter, I had never been much caressed at home--I was always so troublesome that they loved me best at a distance.

at all times; all the time and on every occasion

From this reading Although an only daughter, I had never been much caressed at home--I was always so troublesome that they loved me best at a distance.

the form of “be” used with “I”

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound

From this reading Although an only daughter, I had never been much caressed at home--I was always so troublesome that they loved me best at a distance.

used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

a suite of rooms usually on one floor of an apartment house

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

(usually followed by “to”) naturally disposed toward

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

a fact or assertion offered as evidence that something is true

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

plural of “article” — nonfictional prose forming an independent part of a publication

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading I was quite surprised at the effect which this remark produced.

the sister of your father or mother; the wife of your uncle

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

expected hopefully

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

from a particular thing or place or position (“forth” is obsolete)

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

for the reason that

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

the past participle of “be”

From this reading Although an only daughter, I had never been much caressed at home--I was always so troublesome that they loved me best at a distance.

the -ing form of “be”

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

the supreme effort one can make

From this reading Although an only daughter, I had never been much caressed at home--I was always so troublesome that they loved me best at a distance.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

past form of “caress” — touch or stroke lightly in a loving or endearing manner

From this reading Although an only daughter, I had never been much caressed at home--I was always so troublesome that they loved me best at a distance.

the time of person's life when they are a child

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

a metal frame or container holding cartridges; can be inserted into an automatic gun

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

an excerpt cut from a newspaper or magazine

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

plural of “complaint” — an often persistent bodily disorder or disease; a cause for complaining

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

the past of “can”; used for possibility or polite requests

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

separate with or as if with an instrument

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

a female human offspring

From this reading Although an only daughter, I had never been much caressed at home--I was always so troublesome that they loved me best at a distance.

greatly pleasing or entertaining

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

the past form of “do”, used in questions and negatives

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

past form of “disapprove” — consider bad or wrong

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

the property created by the space between two objects or points

From this reading Although an only daughter, I had never been much caressed at home--I was always so troublesome that they loved me best at a distance.

an illustration that is drawn by hand and published in a book, magazine, or newspaper

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

a phenomenon that follows and is caused by some previous phenomenon

From this reading I was quite surprised at the effect which this remark produced.

the pleasure felt when having a good time

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

unmistakably (“plain” is often used informally for “plainly”)

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

a male parent (also used as a term of address to your father)

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

preceding all others in time or space or degree

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

come into the possession of something concrete or abstract

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

-ing form of “glance” — throw a glance at; take a brief look at

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

relatively large in size or number or extent; larger than others of its kind

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

highest in quality

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect

From this reading Although an only daughter, I had never been much caressed at home--I was always so troublesome that they loved me best at a distance.

past form of “happen” — come to pass

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

violent and needless disturbance

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

belonging to a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

the male already mentioned, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

where you live at a particular time

From this reading Although an only daughter, I had never been much caressed at home--I was always so troublesome that they loved me best at a distance.

the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb

From this reading I was quite surprised at the effect which this remark produced.

the content of cognition; the main thing you are thinking about

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

inside something, or within a place, period, or state

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

a small well holding writing ink into which a pen can be dipped

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

moving to the inside of something

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

prepare and issue for public distribution or sale

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

evidencing the possession of inside information

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

a room where books are kept

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

primarily temporal sense; being or indicating a relatively great or greater than average duration or passage of time or a duration as specified

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

characterized by or producing sound of great volume or intensity

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

held dear

From this reading Although an only daughter, I had never been much caressed at home--I was always so troublesome that they loved me best at a distance.

a reckless impetuous irresponsible person

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

produced by a manufacturing process

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

the person speaking, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading Although an only daughter, I had never been much caressed at home--I was always so troublesome that they loved me best at a distance.

reckless or malicious behavior that causes discomfort or annoyance in others

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

fail to perceive or to catch with the senses or the mind

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

not caught with the senses or the mind

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

a woman who has given birth to a child (also used as a term of address to your mother)

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

possessive form of “mother” — a woman who has given birth to a child (also used as a term of address to your mother)

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

to a great degree or extent

From this reading Although an only daughter, I had never been much caressed at home--I was always so troublesome that they loved me best at a distance.

belonging to the person speaking

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

not ever; at no time in the past or future

From this reading Although an only daughter, I had never been much caressed at home--I was always so troublesome that they loved me best at a distance.

not of long duration; having just (or relatively recently) come into being or been made or acquired or discovered

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

immediately following in time or order

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

sound of any kind (especially unintelligible or dissonant sound)

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

and nothing more

From this reading Although an only daughter, I had never been much caressed at home--I was always so troublesome that they loved me best at a distance.

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

belonging to the speaker and others

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

have ownership or possession of

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

something determined in relation to something that includes it

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

a point located with respect to surface features of some region

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

a fundamental feeling that is hard to define but that people desire to experience

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

confined to particular persons or groups or providing privacy

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

past form of “produce” — bring forth or yield

From this reading I was quite surprised at the effect which this remark produced.

something owned; any tangible or intangible possession that is owned by someone

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

something proposed (such as a plan or assumption)

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

to a degree (not used with a negative)

From this reading I was quite surprised at the effect which this remark produced.

past form of “regard” — deem to be

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

a statement that expresses a personal opinion or belief or adds information

From this reading I was quite surprised at the effect which this remark produced.

experiencing or showing sorrow or unhappiness

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

in an unfortunate way

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

being the one previously mentioned or spoken of

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

the seventh and last day of the week; observed as the Sabbath by Jews and some Christians

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

only a very short time before

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

an edge tool having two crossed pivoting blades

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

move or cause to move back and forth

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

used to say what is right, expected, or advisable

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

Complete absence of sound; a state of quietness and stillness.

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading Although an only daughter, I had never been much caressed at home--I was always so troublesome that they loved me best at a distance.

a thing, without saying which

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

stay the same; remain in a certain state

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

the subject matter of a conversation or discussion

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

having or feeling no doubt or uncertainty; confident and assured

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

the astonishment you feel when something totally unexpected happens to you

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

taken unawares or suddenly and feeling wonder or astonishment

From this reading I was quite surprised at the effect which this remark produced.

a set of data arranged in rows and columns

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

the act of someone who picks up or takes something

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading Although an only daughter, I had never been much caressed at home--I was always so troublesome that they loved me best at a distance.

used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind

From this reading I was quite surprised at the effect which this remark produced.

the people or things already mentioned, as the object

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading Although an only daughter, I had never been much caressed at home--I was always so troublesome that they loved me best at a distance.

used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned

From this reading I was quite surprised at the effect which this remark produced.

something that is a source of danger

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

in the direction of

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

past form of “tremble” — move or jerk quickly and involuntarily up and down or sideways

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

causing difficulty or annoyance

From this reading Although an only daughter, I had never been much caressed at home--I was always so troublesome that they loved me best at a distance.

being or moving higher in position or greater in some value; being above a former position or level

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

disturb the balance or stability of

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

precisely as stated

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading I was quite surprised at the effect which this remark produced.

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading My mother evidently disapproved of Aunt Henshaw's proposal, and my father drawing me towards him affectionately, said: "I am afraid we could not part with our little madcap--we should miss her noise sadly."

the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

in or at the place that

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

used to introduce two or more possibilities

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned

From this reading I was quite surprised at the effect which this remark produced.

past form of “wish” — hope for; have a wish

From this reading The idea of being missed, and actually made a subject of argument, was something quite new to me; and glancing in surprise from one to the other, I awaited the issue in silence, scarcely knowing whether I wished to go or stay.

in the company of; together with

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.

the act of creating written works

From this reading If I happened to get into the library with my father, I was sure to upset the inkstand, or shake the table where he sat writing--or if admitted to my mother's apartment, I made sad havoc with her work-basket, and was very apt to clip up cut out articles with my little scissors--which said scissors I regarded with the greatest affection; in the first place because they were my own private property, and in the next place, they afforded me the delightful pleasure of clipping--that great enjoyment of childhood; but they did so much mischief that complaints against them were loud and long, and I quite trembled at an oft-repeated threat of taking them away.