adeterminerUS /ə/
used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
alightverbUS /əˈlaɪt/
to come to rest, settle
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
alladjectiveUS /ɔːl/
(quantifier) used with either mass or count nouns to indicate the whole number or amount of or every one of a class
From this reading He was gently fanning his hostess, who stood beside the Governor, and evidently he was narrating some spicy incident, or uttering some pungent witticism, whereat all laughed heartily.
andconjunctionUS /ənd/
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
armnounUS /ɑːrm/
a human limb; technically the part of the superior limb between the shoulder and the elbow but commonly used to refer to the whole superior limb
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
aromanounUS /ərˈoʊmə/
any property detected by the olfactory system
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
arrivedverbUS /ərˈaɪvd/
past form of “arrive” — reach a destination; arrive by movement or progress
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
asconjunctionUS /æz/
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
atprepositionUS /æt/
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
beautynounUS /ˈbjuːti/
the qualities that give pleasure to the senses
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
beenauxiliary verbUS /bɪn/
the past participle of “be”
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
besideprepositionUS /bɪˈsaɪd/
next to; at the side of
From this reading He was gently fanning his hostess, who stood beside the Governor, and evidently he was narrating some spicy incident, or uttering some pungent witticism, whereat all laughed heartily.
blownadjectiveUS /bloʊn/
being moved or acted upon by moving air or vapor
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
brimmingadjectiveUS /ˈbrɪmɪŋ/
filled to capacity
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
burnedadjectiveUS /bɜːrnd/
treated by heating to a high temperature but below the melting or fusing point
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
butconjunctionUS /bʌt/
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
byprepositionUS /baɪ/
showing who or what does the action
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
candlesnounUS /ˈkændəlz/
plural of “candle” — stick of wax with a wick in the middle
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
centrenounUS /ˈsentər/
a low-lying region in central France
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
chandeliernounUS /ʃændəˈlɪr/
branched lighting fixture; often ornate; hangs from the ceiling
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
coldadjectiveUS /koʊld/
having a low or inadequate temperature or feeling a sensation of coldness or having been made cold by e.g. ice or refrigeration
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
constellationsnounUS /ˌkɑːnstəˈleɪʃənz/
plural of “constellation” — an arrangement of parts or elements
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
countiesnounUS /ˈkaʊntiz/
plural of “county” — (United Kingdom) a region created by territorial division for the purpose of local government
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
coveringnounUS /ˈkʌvərɪŋ/
a natural object that covers or envelops
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
creme
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
crownnounUS /kraʊn/
the Crown (or the reigning monarch) as the symbol of the power and authority of a monarchy
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
darkeningadjectiveUS /ˈdɑːrkənɪŋ/
becoming dark or darker as from waning light or clouding over
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
denounUS /diː/
a Mid-Atlantic state; one of the original 13 colonies
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
desirableadjectiveUS /dɪˈzaɪrəbəl/
worth having or seeking or achieving
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
distinguishedadjectiveUS /dɪˈstɪŋɡwɪʃt/
(used of persons) standing above others in character or attainment or reputation
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
DivesnounUS /daɪvz/
plural of “dive” — a cheap disreputable nightclub or dance hall
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
Dunbar
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
dyingadjectiveUS /ˈdaɪɪŋ/
in or associated with the process of passing from life or ceasing to be
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
embersnounUS /ˈembərz/
plural of “ember” — a hot fragment of wood or coal that is left from a fire and is glowing or smoldering
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
enteredverbUS /ˈentərd/
past form of “enter” — to come or go into
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
evidentlyadverbUS /ˈevədəntli/
unmistakably (“plain” is often used informally for “plainly”)
From this reading He was gently fanning his hostess, who stood beside the Governor, and evidently he was narrating some spicy incident, or uttering some pungent witticism, whereat all laughed heartily.
exotics
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
familynounUS /ˈfæməli/
a social unit living together
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
fanningverbUS /ˈfænɪŋ/
inflected form of “fan” — strike out (a batter), (of a pitcher)
From this reading He was gently fanning his hostess, who stood beside the Governor, and evidently he was narrating some spicy incident, or uttering some pungent witticism, whereat all laughed heartily.
fashionnounUS /ˈfæʃən/
how something is done or how it happens
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
favoritesnounUS /ˈfeɪvərɪts/
plural of “favorite” — something regarded with special favor or liking
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
firesnounUS /ˈfaɪərz/
plural of “fire” — the event of something burning (often destructive)
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
flaredverbUS /flerd/
past form of “flare” — burn brightly
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
forprepositionUS /fɔːr/
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
fragrantadjectiveUS /ˈfreɪɡrənt/
pleasant-smelling
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
gentlyadverbUS /ˈdʒentli/
in a gradual manner
From this reading He was gently fanning his hostess, who stood beside the Governor, and evidently he was narrating some spicy incident, or uttering some pungent witticism, whereat all laughed heartily.
givenadjectiveUS /ˈɡɪvən/
acknowledged as a supposition
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
glownounUS /ɡloʊ/
an alert and refreshed state
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
goldenadjectiveUS /ˈɡoʊldən/
having the deep slightly brownish color of gold
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
Gordon
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
GovernornounUS /ˈɡʌvərnər/
the head of a state government
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
groupnounUS /ɡruːp/
any number of entities (members) considered as a unit
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/
the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
HepronounUS /hiː/
a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading He was gently fanning his hostess, who stood beside the Governor, and evidently he was narrating some spicy incident, or uttering some pungent witticism, whereat all laughed heartily.
hearthsnounUS /hɑːrθs/
plural of “hearth” — an open recess in a wall at the base of a chimney where a fire can be built
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
heartilyadverbUS /ˈhɑːrtəli/
with gusto and without reservation
From this reading He was gently fanning his hostess, who stood beside the Governor, and evidently he was narrating some spicy incident, or uttering some pungent witticism, whereat all laughed heartily.
heightnounUS /haɪt/
the vertical dimension of extension; distance from the base of something to the top
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
herdeterminerUS /hɜːr/
belonging to a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
hostessnounUS /ˈhoʊstəs/
a woman host
From this reading He was gently fanning his hostess, who stood beside the Governor, and evidently he was narrating some spicy incident, or uttering some pungent witticism, whereat all laughed heartily.
housenounUS /haʊs/
a dwelling that serves as living quarters for one or more families
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
huddledadjectiveUS /ˈhʌdəld/
crowded or massed together
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
ifconjunctionUS /ɪf/
on condition that; in the event that
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
inprepositionUS /ɪn/
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
incidentnounUS /ˈɪnsədənt/
a single distinct event
From this reading He was gently fanning his hostess, who stood beside the Governor, and evidently he was narrating some spicy incident, or uttering some pungent witticism, whereat all laughed heartily.
interstellaradjectiveUS /ˌɪntərˈstelər/
between or among stars
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
ItpronounUS /ɪt/
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
itsdeterminerUS /ɪts/
belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
JudgeverbUS /dʒʌdʒ/
determine the result of (a competition)
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
keenlyadverbUS /ˈkiːnli/
in a keen or penetrating way
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
lanounUS /lɑː/
a white soft metallic element that tarnishes readily; occurs in rare earth minerals and is usually classified as a rare earth
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
largeadjectiveUS /lɑːrdʒ/
above average in size or number or quantity or magnitude or extent
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
lateadjectiveUS /leɪt/
being or occurring at an advanced period of time or after a usual or expected time
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
laughedverbUS /læft/
past form of “laugh” — produce laughter
From this reading He was gently fanning his hostess, who stood beside the Governor, and evidently he was narrating some spicy incident, or uttering some pungent witticism, whereat all laughed heartily.
LazarusnounUS /ˈlæzərəs/
the person who Jesus raised from the dead after four days in the tomb; this miracle caused the enemies of Jesus to begin the plan to put him to death
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
leaningadjectiveUS /ˈliːnɪŋ/
departing or being caused to depart from the true vertical or horizontal
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
lustrenounUS /ˈlʌstər/
a surface coating for ceramics or porcelain
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
mazesnounUS /ˈmeɪzɪz/
plural of “maze” — complex system of paths or tunnels in which it is easy to get lost
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
measuredadjectiveUS /ˈmeʒərd/
having notes of fixed rhythmic value
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
merry-hearted
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
midnightnounUS /ˈmɪdnaɪt/
12 o'clock at night; the middle of the night
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
MissverbUS /mɪs/
fail to perceive or to catch with the senses or the mind
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
mostadverbUS /moʊst/
used to form the superlative
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
MrnounUS /ˈmɪstər/
a form of address for a man
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
multitudinousadjective
too numerous to be counted
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
musicnounUS /ˈmjuːzɪk/
an artistic form of auditory communication incorporating instrumental or vocal tones in a structured and continuous manner
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
narrating
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He was gently fanning his hostess, who stood beside the Governor, and evidently he was narrating some spicy incident, or uttering some pungent witticism, whereat all laughed heartily.
noticedadjectiveUS /ˈnoʊtəst/
being perceived or observed
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
NovembernounUS /noʊˈvembər/
the month following October and preceding December
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
occasionnounUS /əˈkeɪʒən/
an event that occurs at a critical time
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
ofprepositionUS /ʌv/
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
onprepositionUS /ɑːn/
touching and supported by a surface
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/
used to join alternatives or possibilities
From this reading He was gently fanning his hostess, who stood beside the Governor, and evidently he was narrating some spicy incident, or uttering some pungent witticism, whereat all laughed heartily.
overprepositionUS /ˈoʊvər/
above and across; more than
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
Parkman
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
pungentadjectiveUS /ˈpʌndʒənt/
strong and sharp
From this reading He was gently fanning his hostess, who stood beside the Governor, and evidently he was narrating some spicy incident, or uttering some pungent witticism, whereat all laughed heartily.
purplishadjectiveUS /ˈpɜːrplɪʃ/
of a color intermediate between red and blue
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
radiancenounUS /ˈreɪdiːəns/
the amount of electromagnetic radiation leaving or arriving at a point on a surface
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
receptionnounUS /rɪˈsepʃən/
the manner in which something is greeted
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
representativesnounUS /ˌreprəˈzentətɪvz/
plural of “representative” — a person who represents others
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
reviewnounUS /ˌriːˈvjuː/
a new appraisal or evaluation
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
riotousadjectiveUS /ˈraɪətəs/
produced or growing in extreme abundance
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
roomnounUS /ruːm/
an area within a building enclosed by walls and floor and ceiling
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
scantyadjectiveUS /ˈskænti/
lacking in magnitude or quantity
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
severaladjectiveUS /ˈsevrəl/
(used with count nouns) of an indefinite number more than 2 or 3 but not many
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
shepronounUS /ʃiː/
a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
shiveredverbUS /ˈʃɪvərd/
past form of “shiver” — tremble convulsively, as from fear or excitement
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
shredsnounUS /ʃredz/
plural of “shred” — a tiny or scarcely detectable amount
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
silveryadjectiveUS /ˈsɪlvəri/
resembling or reminiscent of silver
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
skimmedadjectiveUS /skɪmd/
used of milk and milk products from which the cream has been removed
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
skynounUS /skaɪ/
the atmosphere and outer space as viewed from the earth
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
softadjectiveUS /sɑːft/
yielding readily to pressure or weight
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
someadjectiveUS /sʌm/
(quantifier) used with either mass nouns or plural count nouns to indicate an unspecified number or quantity
From this reading He was gently fanning his hostess, who stood beside the Governor, and evidently he was narrating some spicy incident, or uttering some pungent witticism, whereat all laughed heartily.
sparkledverbUS /ˈspɑːrkəld/
past form of “sparkle” — reflect brightly
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
spicyadjectiveUS /ˈspaɪsi/
producing a burning sensation on the taste nerves
From this reading He was gently fanning his hostess, who stood beside the Governor, and evidently he was narrating some spicy incident, or uttering some pungent witticism, whereat all laughed heartily.
staffnounUS /stæf/
personnel who assist their superior in carrying out an assigned task
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
standingadjectiveUS /ˈstændɪŋ/
having a supporting base
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
starsnounUS /stɑːrz/
plural of “star” — (astronomy) a celestial body of hot gases that radiates energy derived from thermonuclear reactions in the interior
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
StatenounUS /steɪt/
the territory occupied by one of the constituent administrative districts of a nation
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
stoodverbUS /stʊd/
Maintained an upright posture.
From this reading He was gently fanning his hostess, who stood beside the Governor, and evidently he was narrating some spicy incident, or uttering some pungent witticism, whereat all laughed heartily.
stormsnounUS /stɔːrmz/
plural of “storm” — a violent weather condition with winds 64-72 knots (11 on the Beaufort scale) and precipitation and thunder and lightning
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
sultryadjectiveUS /ˈsʌltri/
sexually exciting or gratifying
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
summernounUS /ˈsʌmər/
the warmest season of the year; in the northern hemisphere it extends from the summer solstice to the autumnal equinox
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
swamverbUS /swæm/
inflected form of “swim” — travel through water
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
thedeterminerUS /ðə/
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
theirdeterminerUS /ðer/
belonging to the people or things already mentioned
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
throbbingnounUS /ˈθrɑːbɪŋ/
an instance of rapid strong pulsation (of the heart)
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
toparticleUS /tuː/
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
troopsnounUS /truːps/
soldiers collectively
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
uncle'snounUS /ˈʌŋkəlz/
possessive form of “uncle” — the brother of your father or mother; the husband of your aunt
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
underprepositionUS /ˈʌndər/
below or beneath something; less than
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
unlikeadjectiveUS /ənˈlaɪk/
marked by dissimilarity
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
unusuallyadverbUS /əˈnjuːʒuːəli/
to a remarkable degree or extent
From this reading Miss Gordon had arrived unusually late, and as she entered the room, leaning on her uncle's arm, she noticed that Mr. Dunbar was the centre of a distinguished group standing under the chandelier.
utteringverbUS /ˈʌtərɪŋ/
-ing form of “utter” — articulate; either verbally or with a cry, shout, or noise
From this reading He was gently fanning his hostess, who stood beside the Governor, and evidently he was narrating some spicy incident, or uttering some pungent witticism, whereat all laughed heartily.
warmadjectiveUS /wɔːrm/
having or producing a comfortable and agreeable degree of heat or imparting or maintaining heat
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
wavesnounUS /weɪvz/
plural of “wave” — one of a series of ridges that moves across the surface of a liquid (especially across a large body of water)
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
waxverbUS /wæks/
cover with wax
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
wealthnounUS /welθ/
the state of being rich and affluent; having a plentiful supply of material goods and money
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
whereat
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He was gently fanning his hostess, who stood beside the Governor, and evidently he was narrating some spicy incident, or uttering some pungent witticism, whereat all laughed heartily.
whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/
used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned
From this reading The large family of Lazarus huddled over dying embers on darkening hearths, and shivered under scanty shreds of covering; but the house of Dives was alight with the soft radiance of wax candles, fragrant with the warm aroma of multitudinous exotics, and brimming with waves of riotous music, on which merry-hearted favorites of fashion swam in measured mazes.
whitenounUS /waɪt/
a Caucasian
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
whopronounUS /huː/
which person or people
From this reading He was gently fanning his hostess, who stood beside the Governor, and evidently he was narrating some spicy incident, or uttering some pungent witticism, whereat all laughed heartily.
windlessadjective
without or almost without wind
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
wintryadjectiveUS /ˈwɪntri/
characteristic of or occurring in winter
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
witnounUS /wɪt/
a message whose ingenuity or verbal skill or incongruity has the power to evoke laughter
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
withprepositionUS /wɪð/
in the company of; together with
From this reading It was midnight in November, keenly cold, but windless; and in the purplish sky, the wintry crown of stars burned with silvery lustre, unlike the golden glow of constellations throbbing in sultry summer, and their white fires sparkled, flared as if blown by interstellar storms.
witticismnoun
a message whose ingenuity or verbal skill or incongruity has the power to evoke laughter
From this reading He was gently fanning his hostess, who stood beside the Governor, and evidently he was narrating some spicy incident, or uttering some pungent witticism, whereat all laughed heartily.
XnounUS /eks/
the cardinal number that is the sum of nine and one; the base of the decimal system
From this reading The "reception" given by Judge Parkman to the Governor and his staff, on the occasion of a review of State troops at X--, was at its height; and several counties had been skimmed for the creme de la creme of most desirable representatives of wit, wealth and beauty.
