used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
AbbeynounUS /ˈæbi/
a church associated with a monastery or convent
From this reading Captain RISBY to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH, _Barford Abbey_.
filled with fear or apprehension
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
aliveadjectiveUS /əˈlaɪv/
possessing life
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
alterationnounUS /ˌɔːltərˈeɪʃən/
an event that occurs when something passes from one state or phase to another
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
the form of “be” used with “I”
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
one more of the same kind, or a different one
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
one or some or every or all without specification
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
areauxiliary verbUS /ɑːr/
the form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
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 By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
ask'd
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
in or to or toward a former location
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
Barford
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Captain RISBY to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH, _Barford Abbey_.
a hostile meeting of opposing military forces in the course of a war
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
earlier than; in front of
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
take the first step or steps in carrying out an action
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
warm-blooded egg-laying vertebrates characterized by feathers and forelimbs modified as wings
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
being of the achromatic color of maximum darkness; having little or no hue owing to absorption of almost all incident light
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
showing who or what does the action
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
to be able to, or to be allowed to
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
an officer holding a rank below a major but above a lieutenant
From this reading Captain RISBY to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH, _Barford Abbey_.
circumstantialadjectiveUS /ˌsɜːrkəmˈstænʃəl/
fully detailed and specific about particulars
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
compar'd
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
something that interests you because it is important or affects you
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
countenancesnounUS /ˈkaʊntənənsɪz/
plural of “countenance” — the appearance conveyed by a person's face
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
croakverbUS /kroʊk/
pass from physical life and lose all bodily attributes and functions necessary to sustain life
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
dartedverbUS /ˈdɑːrtɪd/
past form of “dart” — move along rapidly and lightly; skim or dart
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
dearly loved
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
past form of “die” — pass from physical life and lose all bodily attributes and functions necessary to sustain life
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
plural of “direction” — a line leading to a place or point
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
direfuladjective
causing fear or dread or terror
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
psychological suffering
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
distress'd
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
causing fear or dread or terror
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
every one of two or more people or things, taken separately
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
plural of “ear” — the sense organ for hearing and equilibrium
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
ecchoed
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
errandnounUS /ˈerənd/
a short trip that is taken in the performance of a necessary task or mission
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
escap'd
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
everydeterminerUS /ˈevəri/
all the members of a group, with none left out
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
executedadjectiveUS /ˈeksəkjuːtɪd/
put to death as punishment
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
mat together and make felt-like
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
a piece of land cleared of trees and usually enclosed
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
firstadjectiveUS /fɜːrst/
preceding all others in time or space or degree
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
gleam or glow intermittently
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
inflected form of “fly” — travel through the air; be airborne
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
plural of “friend” — a person you know well and regard with affection and trust
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
showing where something starts, or who sent it
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
a movable barrier in a fence or wall
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
Christian martyr; patron saint of England; hero of the legend of Saint George and the Dragon in which he slew a dragon and saved a princess (?-303)
From this reading Captain RISBY to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH, _Barford Abbey_.
cause to have, in the abstract sense or physical sense
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
groansnounUS /ɡroʊnz/
plural of “groan” — an utterance expressing pain or disapproval
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/
the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
the (prehensile) extremity of the superior limb
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
happen'd
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/
used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
the upper part of the human body or the front part of the body in animals; contains the face and brains
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
worthy of being honored; entitled to honor and respect
From this reading Captain RISBY to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH, _Barford Abbey_.
solid-hoofed herbivorous quadruped domesticated since prehistoric times
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
a dwelling that serves as living quarters for one or more families
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
How
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
humanadjectiveUS /ˈhjuːmən/
characteristic of humanity
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
on condition that; in the event that
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
ill-boding
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
plural of “inhabitant” — a person who inhabits a particular place
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
without delay or hesitation; with no time intervening
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
joyousadjectiveUS /ˈdʒɔɪəs/
full of or characterized by joy
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
and nothing more
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
go away from a place
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
abrupt electric discharge from cloud to cloud or from cloud to earth accompanied by the emission of light
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
prefer or wish to do something
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
the person speaking, as the object of a verb or preposition
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
a communication (usually brief) that is written or spoken or signaled
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
MOLESWORTH
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Captain RISBY to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH, _Barford Abbey_.
a form of address for a man
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
a form of address for a married woman
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
belonging to the person speaking
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
the essential qualities or characteristics by which something is recognized
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
touching and supported by a surface
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
make a painting
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
perceiv'd
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
Powis
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
precedencenounUS /ˈpresədəns/
status established in order of importance or urgency
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
proclaim'd
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
raven's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
RISBY
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Captain RISBY to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH, _Barford Abbey_.
an area within a building enclosed by walls and floor and ceiling
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
the place where some action occurs
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
seiz'd
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
100 senti equal 1 kroon in Estonia
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
used with I and we for the future, or to offer and suggest
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
used to say what is right, expected, or advisable
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
a place within a region identified relative to a center or reference location
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
an instance of visual perception
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
sinksnounUS /sɪŋks/
plural of “sink” — plumbing fixture consisting of a water basin fixed to a wall or floor and having a drainpipe
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
people who have been slain (as in battle)
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
an emotion of great sadness associated with loss or bereavement
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
steward's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
not in physical motion
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
Maintained an upright posture.
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
sunkadjectiveUS /sʌŋk/
doomed to extinction
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
the activity of providing for or maintaining by supplying with money or necessities
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading Captain RISBY to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH, _Barford Abbey_.
belonging to the people or things already mentioned
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
in or at that place or location
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
a special situation
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
the content of cognition; the main thing you are thinking about
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
plural of “thousand” — the cardinal number that is the product of 10 and 100
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
tidingsnounUS /ˈtaɪdɪŋz/
information about recent and important events
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading Captain RISBY to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH, _Barford Abbey_.
transportedverbUS /trænˈspɔːrtɪd/
past form of “transport” — move something or somebody around; usually over long distances
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
the act of changing or reversing the direction of the course
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
the vertical force exerted by a mass as a result of gravity
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
welcomesnounUS /ˈwelkəmz/
plural of “welcome” — the state of being welcome
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
(often used as a combining form) in a good or proper or satisfactory manner or to a high standard (“good” is a nonstandard dialectal variant for “well”)
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
inflected form of “go” — change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/
the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
used to ask for information about something
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
in or at the place that
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
belonging to which person
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
used to talk about the future, or about willingness
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
in the company of; together with
From this reading What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint first!--can there be precedence in sorrow!
the words that are spoken
From this reading They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give me concern?
the person or people being spoken to
From this reading What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful tidings.
belonging to the person or people being spoken to
From this reading By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another.
