Chapter IV · Chapter 4

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

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

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

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

presently existing in fact and not merely potential or possible

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

later than; following

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

an amount allowed or granted (as during a given period)

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

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

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

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

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

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

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

outward or visible aspect of a person or thing

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

plural of “approach” — ideas or actions intended to deal with a problem or situation

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

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

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

reach a destination; arrive by movement or progress

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

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

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

use to one's advantage

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

providing no shelter or sustenance

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

the past participle of “be”

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

the -ing form of “be”

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

a committee having supervisory powers

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

a small vessel for travel on water

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

food made from dough of flour or meal and usually raised with yeast or baking powder and then baked

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

showing who or what does the action

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

to be able to, or to be allowed to

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

small and light boat; pointed at both ends; propelled with a paddle

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

plural of “canoe” — small and light boat; pointed at both ends; propelled with a paddle

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

your overall circumstances or condition in life (including everything that happens to you)

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

having a high state of culture and development both social and technological

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

brought together in one place

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

a state of being relaxed and feeling no pain

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

an institution created to conduct business

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

direct the course of; manage or control

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

having been prepared for eating by the application of heat

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

education imparted in a series of lessons or meetings

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

infestation of the pubic hair by crab lice

From this reading We succeeded in taking an eel, a few crabs, and a small quantity of snails.

formed or developed from something else; not original

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

a statement that represents something in words

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

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

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

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

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

all through a period, or at some point within it

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

the fatty flesh of eel; an elongate fish found in fresh water in Europe and America; large eels are usually smoked or pickled

From this reading We succeeded in taking an eel, a few crabs, and a small quantity of snails.

one or the other of two

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

past form of “embark” — go on board

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

past form of “enable” — render capable or able for some task

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

derive or receive pleasure from; get enjoyment from; take pleasure in

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

something that happens at a given place and time

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

plural of “event” — something that happens at a given place and time

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

to a considerable degree; very much

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

a quantifier that can be used with count nouns and is often preceded by “a”; a small but indefinite number

From this reading We succeeded in taking an eel, a few crabs, and a small quantity of snails.

(usually followed by “with” or used as a combining form) generously supplied with

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

start firing a weapon

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

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

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

any of various mostly cold-blooded aquatic vertebrates usually having scales and breathing through gills

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

plural of “friend” — a person you know well and regard with affection and trust

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

that which is pleasing or valuable or useful

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

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

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

in a joyous manner

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

the -ing form of “have”

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

greater than normal in degree or intensity or amount

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

where you live at a particular time

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

plural of “hope” — a specific instance of feeling hopeful

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

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

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

communication between individuals

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

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

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

a land mass (smaller than a continent) that is surrounded by water

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

used when the thing doing the action is also its object

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

similar in quality or character

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

the land on which real estate is located

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

put into a certain place or abstract location

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

past form of “lodge” — be a lodger; stay temporarily

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

produced by a manufacturing process

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

engage in

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

the location of something surrounded by other things

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

a particular point in time

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

a form of address for a man

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

plural of “native” — an indigenous person who was born in a particular place

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

disregarded

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

the time after sunset and before sunrise while it is dark outside

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

the property possessed by a sum or total or indefinite quantity of units or individuals

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

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

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

belonging to the speaker and others

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

not taken into account

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

plural of “person” — a human being

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

plural of “piece” — a separate part of a whole

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

-ing form of “pilfer” — make off with belongings of others

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

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

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

the act of stealing valuable things from a place

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

in fortunate circumstances financially; moderately rich

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

carry out or participate in an activity; be involved in

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

how much there is or how many there are of something that you can quantify

From this reading We succeeded in taking an eel, a few crabs, and a small quantity of snails.

set down or registered in a permanent form especially on film or tape for reproduction

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

a submerged ridge of rock or coral near the surface of the water

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

the feeling that comes when something burdensome is removed or reduced

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

the food served and eaten at one time

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

firm in purpose or belief; characterized by firmness and determination

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

a lump or mass of hard consolidated mineral matter

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

(of persons or their actions) able or disposed to inflict pain or suffering

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

rescued; especially from the power and consequences of sin

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

(used with count nouns) of an indefinite number more than 2 or 3 but not many

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

intensely or extremely bad or unpleasant in degree or quality

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

transport commercially

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

possessive form of “ship” — a vessel that carries passengers or freight

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

an instance of visual perception

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

the general state of things; the combination of circumstances at a given time

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

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

From this reading We succeeded in taking an eel, a few crabs, and a small quantity of snails.

plural of “snail” — freshwater or marine or terrestrial gastropod mollusk usually having an external enclosing spiral shell

From this reading We succeeded in taking an eel, a few crabs, and a small quantity of snails.

plural of “source” — the place where something begins, where it springs into being

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

plural of “stick” — an implement consisting of a length of wood

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

not in physical motion

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

past form of “succeed” — attain success or reach a desired goal

From this reading We succeeded in taking an eel, a few crabs, and a small quantity of snails.

a state of acute pain

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

of a quantity that can fulfill a need or requirement but without being abundant

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

ostentatiously rich and superior in quality

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

plural of “survivor” — one who lives through affliction

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

the act of someone who picks up or takes something

From this reading We succeeded in taking an eel, a few crabs, and a small quantity of snails.

very great or intense

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

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

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

the people or things already mentioned, as the object

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

used when the people doing the action are also its object

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors)

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

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

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

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

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

the plural of “that”: the people or things further away, or already known

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

in spite of the fact that

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

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

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

the cardinal number that is the product of 10 and 100

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

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

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

in the direction of

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

the deliberate act of delaying and playing instead of working

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

not favored by fortune; marked or accompanied by or resulting in ill fortune

From this reading Happily, by the goodness of the allwise Disposer of events, the unfortunate can avail themselves of a thousand sources of comfort, which, by those in prosperous circumstances, are either overlooked or neglected.

a formal word for “on”

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

the speaker and others, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

having no beneficial use or incapable of functioning usefully

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

any materials unused and rejected as worthless or unwanted

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

United States actress and singer (1896-1977)

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

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

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

used to ask for information about something

From this reading Having our fire-works with us, we collected a sufficient number of sticks, with a few pieces of drift-wood which had lodged upon the rock, to make a fire; with this we cooked our fish and snails; and, with a small allowance of bread, we made what we then thought a sumptuous repast!

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

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

in the company of; together with

From this reading The situation of the survivors of the ship's company upon the reef during the night.--A canoe filled with savage natives approaches the reef; intercourse with them; and description of their persons and terrific appearance.--Their pilfering of the articles saved, and plundering of the ship.--Several canoes arrive.--Mr. Nute's resolute conduct towards the natives.--The ship's company pursue their course, in their boat, towards an island, on which they land after severe suffering.

inside; before a period of time has passed

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

Having or showing the qualities or abilities that merit recognition in character or magic.

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.

something or someone that has suffered ruin or dilapidation

From this reading We were upon a barren rock, in the midst of a waste of waters, far from kindred and friends, and the abodes of civilized man; the ship which had been our home, and on board of which we had embarked with high hopes, lay within sight, a useless wreck; still we were enabled to enjoy a moment of relief, if not of actual pleasure, derived from an event, which, though trifling in itself, is worthy of being recorded.