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Amusing Prose Chap-Books
Amusing Prose Chap-Books

Chapter XXXII

Chapter 32 of Amusing Prose Chap-Books is here in full — 116 sentences across 24 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

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Context Illustration Reading 1/23 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
_How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.
His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.
It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.
"'Tis well," said the friar, "if I catch you not tripping."
Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.
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AI-generated narration by OpenAI · Slow US English
LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

Amusing Prose Chap-Books

Chapter XXXII

Chapter 32 of Amusing Prose Chap-Books is here in full — 116 sentences across 24 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/23 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
_How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.
Line 2
His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.
/hɪz neɪm wɑːz maɪlz ənd ðoʊ hɪz ˈmæstər ənd ðoʊz ʌv ðə ˈɔːrdər ˈɔːfən ˈfæstɪd ɑːn set deɪz maɪlz lʌvd hɪz ɡʌts tuː wel tuː pɪntʃ ðem ənd ðoʊ ˈaʊtwərdli hiː siːmd tuː fæst fɔːr kəmˈplaɪəns hiː ˈɔːlweɪz kept ə ˈpraɪvət rɪˈzɜːrv tuː iːt ɪn ə ˈkɔːrnər wɪtʃ ˈbeɪkən nuː baɪ ɑːrt ənd riˈzɑːlvd tuː pʊt ə trɪk əˈpɑːn hɪm/
Line 3
It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.
Line 4
"'Tis well," said the friar, "if I catch you not tripping."
/tɪz wel sed ðə ˈfraɪər ɪf aɪ kætʃ juː nɑːt ˈtrɪpɪŋ/
Line 5
Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

Learner Dictionary

These definitions explain words found in the current reading and keep every example grounded in its original sentence.

Oxford-style entry order: headword, part of speech, US IPA, concise definition, contextual example, and audio.

absolution noun US /ˌæbsəˈluːʃən/

the condition of being formally forgiven by a priest in the sacrament of penance

From this reading “It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.”

Abstinence noun US /ˈæbstənəns/

the trait of abstaining (especially from alcohol)

From this reading “_How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.”

compliance noun US /kəmˈplaɪəns/

acting according to certain accepted standards

From this reading “His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.”

fasted verb US /ˈfæstɪd/

past form of “fast” — abstain from certain foods, as for religious or medical reasons

From this reading “His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.”

guts noun US /ɡʌts/

fortitude and determination

From this reading “His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.”

sanctity noun US /ˈsæŋktɪti/

the quality of being holy

From this reading “It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.”

sip noun US /sɪp/

a small drink

From this reading “It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.”

tripping adjective US /ˈtrɪpɪŋ/

characterized by a buoyant rhythm

From this reading “"'Tis well," said the friar, "if I catch you not tripping."”

Word partnerships in these lines

English keeps certain words together, and knowing the pair is worth more than knowing each word alone. Every partnership below was counted across our whole published library, and earns its place by appearing far more often than two unrelated words of the same frequency would.

Shown as this reading writes them, with the form the library counts, what kind of pairing it is, and how often it occurs.

great sinner adjective + noun

In this reading “It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.”

always kept adverb + adjective

In this reading “His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.”

put into verb + particle

In this reading “Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.”

in a Corner preposition + article + noun counted as “in … corner”

In this reading “_How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.”

in the morning preposition + article + noun counted as “in … morning”

In this reading “It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.”

seemed very verb + adjective counted as “seem very”

In this reading “It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.”

wait on verb + particle

work for or be a servant to

In this reading “_How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.”

All words in this reading · 139

Every word in these five lines is listed here, and every one of them can be played on its own.

Dictionary details are shown only when verified; these are not licensed Oxford entries.

adeterminerUS /ə/

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

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

absolutionnounUS /ˌæbsəˈluːʃən/

the condition of being formally forgiven by a priest in the sacrament of penance

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

AbstinencenounUS /ˈæbstənəns/

the trait of abstaining (especially from alcohol)

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

alwaysadverbUS /ˈɔːlweɪz/

at all times; all the time and on every occasion

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

artauxiliary verbUS /ɑːrt/

an old form of “are”, used with “thou”

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

atprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

BaconnounUS /ˈbeɪkən/

back and sides of a hog salted and dried or smoked; usually sliced thin and fried

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

bidverbUS /bɪd/

propose a payment

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

bitnounUS /bɪt/

a small piece or quantity of something

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

breadnounUS /bred/

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

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

butconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

catchverbUS /kætʃ/

discover or come upon accidentally, suddenly, or unexpectedly; catch somebody doing something or in a certain state

From this reading "'Tis well," said the friar, "if I catch you not tripping."

cellnounUS /sel/

A small stone room in a prison where an inmate is locked behind iron bars.

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

ComicaladjectiveUS /ˈkɑːmɪkəl/

arousing or provoking laughter

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

compliancenounUS /kəmˈplaɪəns/

acting according to certain accepted standards

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

concealedadjectiveUS /kənˈsiːld/

not accessible to view

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

CornernounUS /ˈkɔːrnər/

a place off to the side of an area

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

couldmodal verbUS /kʊd/

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

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

DaynounUS /deɪ/

time for Earth to make a complete rotation on its axis

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

daysnounUS /deɪz/

the time during which someone's life continues

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

devoutadjectiveUS /dɪˈvaʊt/

deeply religious

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

doauxiliary verbUS /duː/

used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

drolladjectiveUS /droʊl/

comical in an odd or whimsical manner

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

earlyadjectiveUS /ˈɜːrli/

at or near the beginning of a period of time or course of events or before the usual or expected time

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

eatverbUS /iːt/

take in solid food

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

endnounUS /end/

either extremity of something that has length

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

faintingverbUS /ˈfeɪntɪŋ/

-ing form of “faint” — pass out from weakness, physical or emotional distress due to a loss of blood supply to the brain

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

FastadverbUS /fæst/

quickly or rapidly (often used as a combining form)

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

fastedverbUS /ˈfæstɪd/

past form of “fast” — abstain from certain foods, as for religious or medical reasons

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

fellownounUS /ˈfeloʊ/

a boy or man

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

fineadjectiveUS /faɪn/

being satisfactory or in satisfactory condition

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

FriarnounUS /ˈfraɪər/

a male member of a religious order that originally relied solely on alms

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

FridaynounUS /ˈfraɪdi/

the sixth day of the week; the fifth working day

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

fromprepositionUS /frʌm/

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

fulladjectiveUS /fʊl/

containing as much or as many as is possible or normal

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

gainverbUS /ɡeɪn/

obtain

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

getverbUS /ɡet/

come into the possession of something concrete or abstract

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

GoodadjectiveUS /ɡʊd/

having desirable or positive qualities especially those suitable for a thing specified

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

greatadjectiveUS /ɡreɪt/

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

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

gutsnounUS /ɡʌts/

fortitude and determination

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/

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

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

happenedverbUS /ˈhæpənd/

past form of “happen” — come to pass

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

hepronounUS /hiː/

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

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

heldadjectiveUS /held/

occupied or in the control of; often used in combination

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

Hereuponadverb

immediately after this

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

himpronounUS /hɪm/

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

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

holynounUS /ˈhoʊli/

a sacred place of pilgrimage

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

How

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

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

howeveradverbUS /ˌhaʊˈevər/

used to add a contrasting statement

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

IpronounUS /aɪ/

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

From this reading "'Tis well," said the friar, "if I catch you not tripping."

ifconjunctionUS /ɪf/

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading "'Tis well," said the friar, "if I catch you not tripping."

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

inclinedadjectiveUS /ˌɪnˈklaɪnd/

(often followed by “to”) having a preference, disposition, or tendency

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

indeedadverbUS /ˌɪnˈdiːd/

in truth (often tends to intensify)

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/

moving to the inside of something

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

ItpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

keepverbUS /kiːp/

cause to continue in a certain state, position, or activity; e.g., “keep clean”

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

keptadjectiveUS /kept/

(especially of promises or contracts) not violated or disregarded

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

knewverbUS /nuː/

inflected form of “know” — be cognizant or aware of a fact or a specific piece of information; possess knowledge or information about

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

LentnounUS /lent/

a period of 40 weekdays from Ash Wednesday to Holy Saturday

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

lovedadjectiveUS /lʌvd/

held dear

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

makingnounUS /ˈmeɪkɪŋ/

the act that results in something coming to be

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

mannounUS /mæn/

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

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

manyadjectiveUS /ˈmeni/

a quantifier that can be used with count nouns and is often preceded by “as” or “too” or “so” or “that”; amounting to a large but indefinite number

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

masternounUS /ˈmæstər/

an artist of consummate skill

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

merryadjectiveUS /ˈmeri/

full of or showing high-spirited merriment

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

MilesnounUS /maɪlz/

plural of “mile” — a unit of length equal to 1,760 yards or 5,280 feet; exactly 1609.344 meters

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

moreadjectiveUS /mɔːr/

(comparative of “much” used with mass nouns) a quantifier meaning greater in size or amount or extent or degree

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

morningnounUS /ˈmɔːrnɪŋ/

the time period between dawn and noon

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

mortificationnounUS /ˈmɔːrtəfkeɪʃən/

strong feelings of embarrassment

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

mouthnounUS /maʊθ/

the opening through which food is taken in and vocalizations emerge

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

nameverbUS /neɪm/

assign a specified (usually proper) proper name to

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

neitherdeterminerUS /ˈniːðər/

not one and not the other of two

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

nodeterminerUS /noʊ/

not any; not one

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

norconjunctionUS /nɔːr/

and not; used after a negative to add a second negative

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

notadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading "'Tis well," said the friar, "if I catch you not tripping."

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

oftenadverbUS /ˈɔːfən/

many times at short intervals

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

onprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

onepronounUS /wʌn/

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

ordernounUS /ˈɔːrdər/

(often plural) a command given by a superior (e.g., a military or law enforcement officer) that must be obeyed

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

oughtmodal verbUS /ɔːt/

used with “to” to say what is right or advisable

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

outadjectiveUS /aʊt/

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

outwardlyadverbUS /ˈaʊtwərdli/

with respect to the outside

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

pinchverbUS /pɪntʃ/

squeeze tightly between the fingers

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

PocketnounUS /ˈpɑːkət/

a small pouch inside a garment for carrying small articles

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

prayverbUS /preɪ/

address a deity, a prophet, a saint or an object of worship; say a prayer

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

pretences

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

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

pretendingnounUS /priˈtendɪŋ/

the act of giving a false appearance

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

privateadjectiveUS /ˈpraɪvət/

confined to particular persons or groups or providing privacy

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

puddingnounUS /ˈpʊdɪŋ/

any of various soft thick unsweetened baked dishes

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

putverbUS /pʊt/

put into a certain place or abstract location

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

refusedverbUS /rəˈfjuːzd/

past form of “refuse” — show unwillingness towards

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

reservenounUS /rɪˈzɜːrv/

formality and propriety of manner

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

resolvedadjectiveUS /riˈzɑːlvd/

determined

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

saidadjectiveUS /sed/

being the one previously mentioned or spoken of

From this reading "'Tis well," said the friar, "if I catch you not tripping."

sanctitynounUS /ˈsæŋktɪti/

the quality of being holy

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

sayingnounUS /ˈseɪɪŋ/

a word or phrase that particular people use in particular situations

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

seemedverbUS /siːmd/

past form of “seem” — give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

setverbUS /set/

put into a certain place or abstract location

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

simpleadjectiveUS /ˈsɪmpəl/

having few parts; not complex or complicated or involved

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

sinnernounUS /ˈsɪnər/

a person who sins (without repenting)

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

sipnounUS /sɪp/

a small drink

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

soconjunctionUS /soʊ/

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

sooneradverbUS /ˈsuːnər/

comparatives of “soon” or “early”

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

strictadjectiveUS /strɪkt/

rigidly accurate; allowing no deviation from a standard

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

stuckadjectiveUS /stʌk/

caught or fixed

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

takeverbUS /teɪk/

carry out

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

thanconjunctionUS /ðæn/

used to introduce the second part of a comparison

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

thempronounUS /ðem/

the people or things already mentioned, as the object

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

thereadverbUS /ðer/

in or at that place or location

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

thereforeadverbUS /ˈðerfɔːr/

for that reason; as a result

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

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

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

thosedeterminerUS /ðoʊz/

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

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

thoughconjunctionUS /ðoʊ/

in spite of the fact that

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

TisnounUS /tɪz/

plural of “ti” — a light strong grey lustrous corrosion-resistant metallic element used in strong lightweight alloys (as for airplane parts); the main sources are rutile and ilmenite

From this reading "'Tis well," said the friar, "if I catch you not tripping."

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

tooadverbUS /tuː/

to a degree exceeding normal or proper limits

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

TricknounUS /trɪk/

a cunning or deceitful action or device

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

trippingadjectiveUS /ˈtrɪpɪŋ/

characterized by a buoyant rhythm

From this reading "'Tis well," said the friar, "if I catch you not tripping."

uponprepositionUS /əˈpɑːn/

a formal word for “on”

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

veryadjectiveUS /ˈveri/

precisely as stated

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

Victualsnoun

a stock or supply of foods

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

waggeries

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

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

waitverbUS /weɪt/

stay in one place and anticipate or expect something

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

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

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

welladverbUS /wel/

(often used as a combining form) in a good or proper or satisfactory manner or to a high standard (“good” is a nonstandard dialectal variant for “well”)

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

wentverbUS /went/

inflected form of “go” — change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically

From this reading Hereupon Miles went to his cell, pretending to pray, but indeed to eat a fine pudding he had concealed: which he had no sooner put into his mouth at one end, but it stuck there; he could neither eat it nor get it out.

whenconjunctionUS /wen/

at the time that

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading His name was Miles, and though his master and those of the order often fasted on set days, Miles loved his guts too well to pinch them, and though outwardly he seemed to fast for compliance, he always kept a private reserve to eat in a corner, which Bacon knew by art, and resolved to put a trick upon him.

whopronounUS /huː/

which person or people

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

winenounUS /waɪn/

fermented juice (of grapes especially)

From this reading It so happened on Good Friday, in Lent, a strict fast was held, and Miles seemed very devout; for when his master bid him, however, take a bit of bread and a sip of wine early in the morning to keep him from fainting, he refused it, saying he was a great sinner, and therefore ought to do more than this for his mortification, and to gain absolution, making a great many pretences of sanctity, and how well he was inclined to keep the holy fast.

yetconjunctionUS /jet/

but in spite of that

From this reading _How Friar Bacon put a Comical Trick upon his man Miles, who, pretending Abstinence on a Fast Day, concealed Victuals in his Pocket to eat in a Corner._ Friar Bacon kept a man to wait on him who, though but a simple fellow, yet a merry droll and full of waggeries.

youpronounUS /juː/

the person or people being spoken to

From this reading "'Tis well," said the friar, "if I catch you not tripping."

Chapter 32 of Amusing Prose Chap-Books by Robert Hays [Editor] Cunningham holds 116 sentences, grouped into 24 reading sections of at most 5 sentences. The text is the source edition, unabridged, and the chapter records which sentences cover which part of the work so that nothing is dropped. Every word can be tapped for its pronunciation and dictionary entry.

What does chapter 32 of Amusing Prose Chap-Books contain?

Chapter 32 holds 116 sentences of Amusing Prose Chap-Books, unabridged, divided into 24 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 32 of Amusing Prose Chap-Books by Robert Hays [Editor] Cunningham exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 116 sentences, grouped into 24 sections of at most 5 sentences so that a reader can take the chapter in steady, finishable pieces. The chapter also stores a coverage record mapping every one of its sentences to a part of the work, which is how the edition demonstrates that no line was dropped.

How do I study chapter 32 of Amusing Prose Chap-Books?

Work through the 24 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 24 sections in this chapter is short enough to read once, hear once, and then re-read with the vocabulary in view. Tapping a word plays it alone and opens its dictionary entry with IPA, part of speech and meaning, so the reader is never forced to guess a pronunciation from spelling. Working section by section keeps a long chapter from becoming an undifferentiated wall of text, which is the usual reason a reader abandons a work of this period.

Can chapter 32 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 32 can be played aloud in United States English.

Audio covers the whole chapter: any sentence can be played, and any single word within it can be played on its own. The voice uses United States English. For a work of this period that matters, because spelling is an unreliable guide to pronunciation for vocabulary that has fallen out of daily use, and a learner who guesses wrong tends to keep the error. Hearing the word in its own sentence, and then alone, settles it.

Questions about reading Amusing Prose Chap-Books

Common questions about reading Amusing Prose Chap-Books by Robert Hays [Editor] Cunningham on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of Amusing Prose Chap-Books?

Yes. All 3829 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #36517 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of Amusing Prose Chap-Books is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #36517, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does Amusing Prose Chap-Books take to read?

About 319 minutes of reading across 766 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read Amusing Prose Chap-Books section by section

How to work through Amusing Prose Chap-Books section by section, using the audio and the tap-to-define vocabulary.

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 40 chapters of Amusing Prose Chap-Books to begin.

  2. Read one section

    Each section holds 5 sentences; read it once through.

  3. Listen and tap

    Play the section aloud, then tap any unfamiliar word for its entry.

Vocabulary met early in Amusing Prose Chap-Books

Words and structures a reader meets early in Amusing Prose Chap-Books, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Editorial
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Amusing Prose Chap-Books; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Years
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Amusing Prose Chap-Books; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Largely
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Amusing Prose Chap-Books; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Increasing
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Amusing Prose Chap-Books; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.