Chapter II · Chapter 2

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

From this reading Individuals from various countries dashed into this lucrative traffic, so that in the year 1792, there were twenty-one vessels under different flags, plying along the coast and trading with the natives.

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

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

from one side of something to the other

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

plural of “adventurer” — a person who enjoys taking risks

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

following the length of something from one end toward the other

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

North American republic containing 50 states - 48 conterminous states in North America plus Alaska in northwest North America and the Hawaiian Islands in the Pacific Ocean; achieved independence in 1776

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

a native or inhabitant of the United States

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

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

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

at the same time that; because; in the way that

From this reading It was as if a new gold coast had been discovered.

possessive form of “astor” — British politician (born in the United States) who was the first woman to sit in the British House of Commons (1879-1964)

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

the past participle of “be”

From this reading It was as if a new gold coast had been discovered.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

a nation in northern North America; the French were the first Europeans to settle in mainland Canada

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

an officer holding a rank below a major but above a lieutenant

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

move while supporting, either in a vehicle or in one's hands or on one's body

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

possessive form of “carver” — United States botanist and agricultural chemist who developed many uses for peanuts and soy beans and sweet potatoes (1864-1943)

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

a communist nation that covers a vast territory in eastern Asia; the most populous country in the world

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

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

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

the shore of a sea or ocean

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

-ing form of “coast” — move effortlessly; by force of gravity

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

a North American river; rises in southwestern Canada and flows southward across Washington to form the border between Washington and Oregon before emptying into the Pacific; known for its salmon runs in the spring

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

connected with or engaged in or sponsored by or used in commerce or commercial enterprises

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

plural of “company” — an institution created to conduct business

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

an institution created to conduct business

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

prepare a hot meal

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

communication by the exchange of letters

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

plural of “country” — a politically organized body of people under a single government

From this reading Individuals from various countries dashed into this lucrative traffic, so that in the year 1792, there were twenty-one vessels under different flags, plying along the coast and trading with the natives.

education imparted in a series of lessons or meetings

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

having gaps or spaces

From this reading Individuals from various countries dashed into this lucrative traffic, so that in the year 1792, there were twenty-one vessels under different flags, plying along the coast and trading with the natives.

unlike in nature or quality or form or degree

From this reading Individuals from various countries dashed into this lucrative traffic, so that in the year 1792, there were twenty-one vessels under different flags, plying along the coast and trading with the natives.

discovered or determined by scientific observation

From this reading It was as if a new gold coast had been discovered.

someone who is the first to think of or make something

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

the act of discovering something

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

a phenomenon that follows and is caused by some previous phenomenon

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

plural of “enterprise” — a purposeful or industrious undertaking (especially one that requires effort or boldness)

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

a military campaign designed to achieve a specific objective in a foreign country

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

to a considerable degree; very much

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

plural of “flag” — emblem usually consisting of a rectangular piece of cloth of distinctive design

From this reading Individuals from various countries dashed into this lucrative traffic, so that in the year 1792, there were twenty-one vessels under different flags, plying along the coast and trading with the natives.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

set up or found

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading Individuals from various countries dashed into this lucrative traffic, so that in the year 1792, there were twenty-one vessels under different flags, plying along the coast and trading with the natives.

the dressed hairy coat of a mammal

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

coins made of gold

From this reading It was as if a new gold coast had been discovered.

of behavior that is impressive and ambitious in scale or scope

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

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

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

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

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

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

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading It was as if a new gold coast had been discovered.

unusually great in size or amount or degree or especially extent or scope

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

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

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

plural of “individual” — a human being

From this reading Individuals from various countries dashed into this lucrative traffic, so that in the year 1792, there were twenty-one vessels under different flags, plying along the coast and trading with the natives.

an anticipated outcome that is intended or that guides your planned actions

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

moving to the inside of something

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading It was as if a new gold coast had been discovered.

belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

3rd President of the United States; chief drafter of the Declaration of Independence; made the Louisiana Purchase in 1803 and sent out the Lewis and Clark Expedition to explore it (1743-1826)

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

undertake a journey or trip

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

apprehended with certainty

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

immediately past

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

United States rock star singer and pianist (born in 1935)

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

producing a sizeable profit

From this reading Individuals from various countries dashed into this lucrative traffic, so that in the year 1792, there were twenty-one vessels under different flags, plying along the coast and trading with the natives.

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

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

produced by a manufacturing process

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

plural of “mountain” — a land mass that projects well above its surroundings; higher than a hill

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

a form of address for a man

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

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

From this reading Individuals from various countries dashed into this lucrative traffic, so that in the year 1792, there were twenty-one vessels under different flags, plying along the coast and trading with the natives.

plural of “negotiation” — a discussion intended to produce an agreement

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

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

From this reading It was as if a new gold coast had been discovered.

the northwestern region of the United States

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

being perceived or observed

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

plural of “object” — a tangible and visible entity; an entity that can cast a shadow

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

past form of “obtain” — come into possession of

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

the largest ocean in the world

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

-ing form of “ply” — give what is desired or needed, especially support, food or sustenance

From this reading Individuals from various countries dashed into this lucrative traffic, so that in the year 1792, there were twenty-one vessels under different flags, plying along the coast and trading with the natives.

plural of “price” — the property of having material worth (often indicated by the amount of money something would bring if sold)

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

communicate vividly

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

the act of applying force in order to move something away

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

plural of “quantity” — how much there is or how many there are of something that you can quantify

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

widely known and esteemed

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

a large natural stream of water (larger than a creek)

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

abounding in rocks or stones

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

a native or inhabitant of Russia

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

Identical; not different.

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

an elaborate and systematic plan of action

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

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

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

a body of people who settle far from home but maintain ties with their homeland; inhabitants remain nationals of their home state but are not literally under the home state's system of government

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

being all around the edges; enclosing

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading Individuals from various countries dashed into this lucrative traffic, so that in the year 1792, there were twenty-one vessels under different flags, plying along the coast and trading with the natives.

a flight of stairs or a flight of steps

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

the subject matter of a conversation or discussion

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

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

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

in or at that place or location

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

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

From this reading Individuals from various countries dashed into this lucrative traffic, so that in the year 1792, there were twenty-one vessels under different flags, plying along the coast and trading with the natives.

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

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

the commercial exchange (buying and selling on domestic or international markets) of goods and services

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

buying or selling securities or commodities

From this reading Individuals from various countries dashed into this lucrative traffic, so that in the year 1792, there were twenty-one vessels under different flags, plying along the coast and trading with the natives.

the aggregation of things (pedestrians or vehicles) coming and going in a particular locality during a specified period of time

From this reading Individuals from various countries dashed into this lucrative traffic, so that in the year 1792, there were twenty-one vessels under different flags, plying along the coast and trading with the natives.

-ing form of “traverse” — travel across or pass over

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

the cardinal number that is the sum of twenty and one

From this reading Individuals from various countries dashed into this lucrative traffic, so that in the year 1792, there were twenty-one vessels under different flags, plying along the coast and trading with the natives.

below or beneath something; less than

From this reading Individuals from various countries dashed into this lucrative traffic, so that in the year 1792, there were twenty-one vessels under different flags, plying along the coast and trading with the natives.

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

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

of many different kinds purposefully arranged but lacking any uniformity

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

unusually great in size or amount or degree or especially extent or scope

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

plural of “vessel” — a tube in which a body fluid circulates

From this reading Individuals from various countries dashed into this lucrative traffic, so that in the year 1792, there were twenty-one vessels under different flags, plying along the coast and trading with the natives.

an act of traveling by water

From this reading The last voyage of that renowned but unfortunate discoverer, Captain Cook, had made known the vast quantities of the sea-otter to be found along that coast, and the immense prices to be obtained for its fur in China.

plural of “voyage” — an act of traveling by water

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

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

From this reading It was as if a new gold coast had been discovered.

plural of “waste” — any materials unused and rejected as worthless or unwanted

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

United States actress and singer (1896-1977)

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

filled with water

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

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

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

relating to or characteristic of the western parts of the world or the West as opposed to the eastern or oriental parts

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

during the time that

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

having great (or a certain) extent from one side to the other

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

plural of “wild” — a wild primitive state untouched by civilization

From this reading WHILE the various companies we have noticed were pushing their enterprises far and wide in the wilds of Canada, and along the course of the great western waters, other adventurers, intent on the same objects, were traversing the watery wastes of the Pacific and skirting the northwest coast of America.

in the company of; together with

From this reading Fur Trade in the Pacific--American Coasting Voyages--Russian Enterprises.--Discovery of the Columbia River.--Carver’s Project to Found a Settlement There.--Mackenzie’s Expedition.--Lewis and Clarke’s Journey Across the Rocky Mountains--Mr. Astor’s Grand Commercial Scheme.--His Correspondence on the Subject With Mr. Jefferson.--His Negotiations With the Northwest Company.--His Steps to Carry His Scheme Into Effect.

a period of time containing 365 (or 366) days

From this reading Individuals from various countries dashed into this lucrative traffic, so that in the year 1792, there were twenty-one vessels under different flags, plying along the coast and trading with the natives.