Chapter I

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

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

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

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

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

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

on the subject of; concerning

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

generally approved or compelling recognition

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

(followed by “to”) in agreement with or accordant with

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

-ing form of “affix” — attach to

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

how long something has existed

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

united by being of the same opinion

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

the statement (oral or written) of an exchange of promises

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

prior to a specified or implied time

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

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

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

put into service; make work or employ for a particular purpose or for its inherent or natural purpose

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

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

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

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

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

take to be the case or to be true; accept without verification or proof

From this reading This theory, however, has at present no evidence to support it, and it is reasonable to assume that Chaucer was a native of London.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

having a base

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

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

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

the past participle of “be”

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

an account of the series of events making up a person's life

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

the time when something begins (especially life)

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

brought into existence

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

a division of some larger or more complex organization

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

(used of soaps or cleaning agents) having a substance (an abrasive or filler) added to increase effectiveness

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

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

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

inflected form of “come” — move toward, travel toward something or somebody or approach something or somebody

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

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

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

taking care or paying attention

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

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

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

a court with jurisdiction in equity

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

English poet remembered as author of the Canterbury Tales (1340-1400)

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

possessive form of “chaucer” — English poet remembered as author of the Canterbury Tales (1340-1400)

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

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

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

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

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

an employee who performs clerical work (e.g., keeps records or accounts)

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

someone who is victorious by force of arms

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

deem to be

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

past form of “consist” — originate

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

characteristic of the present

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

a lawyer who pleads cases in court

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

an assembly (including one or more judges) to conduct judicial business

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

become dark or darker

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

marked by features of the immediate and usually discounted past

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

recognizable; marked

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

formed or developed from something else; not original

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

plural of “document” — writing that provides information (especially information of an official nature)

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

plural of “doubt” — the state of being unsure of something

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

the social force that binds you to the courses of action demanded by that force

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for normal reproduction; an important antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals in the body

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

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

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

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

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

past form of “endorse” — be behind; approve of

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

an Indo-European language belonging to the West Germanic branch; the official language of Britain and the United States and most of the commonwealth countries

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

your basis for belief or disbelief; knowledge on which to base belief

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

plural of “fact” — a piece of information about circumstances that exist or events that have occurred

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

a social unit living together

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

widely known and esteemed

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

a male parent (also used as a term of address to your father)

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

come upon, as if by accident; meet with

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

inflammation of the laminated tissue that attaches the hoof to the foot of a horse

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

the Romance language spoken in France and in countries colonized by France

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

to the greatest degree or extent; completely or entirely; (“full” in this sense is used as a combining form)

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

to or at a greater extent or degree or a more advanced stage (“further” is used more often than “farther” in this abstract sense)

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

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

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

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

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

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

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

a unit of inductance in which an induced electromotive force of one volt is produced when the current is varied at the rate of one ampere per second

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

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

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

the aggregate of past events

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

socks and stockings and tights collectively (the British include underwear)

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

used to add a contrasting statement

From this reading This theory, however, has at present no evidence to support it, and it is reasonable to assume that Chaucer was a native of London.

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

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

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

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

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

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

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

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

used when the thing doing the action is also its object

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

a room or building equipped with one or more toilets

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

of or relating to the ancient Latins or the Latin language

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

a characteristic state or mode of living

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

of comparatively little physical weight or density

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

the capital and largest city of England; located on the Thames in southeastern England; financial and industrial and cultural center

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

primarily temporal sense; being or indicating a relatively great or greater than average duration or passage of time or a duration as specified

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

a person who makes things

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

used to say something is possible, or to give permission

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

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

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

used to form the superlative

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

a form of address for a man

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

assign a specified (usually proper) proper name to

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

a person with the same name as another

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

characteristic of or existing by virtue of geographic origin

From this reading This theory, however, has at present no evidence to support it, and it is reasonable to assume that Chaucer was a native of London.

not any; not one

From this reading This theory, however, has at present no evidence to support it, and it is reasonable to assume that Chaucer was a native of London.

in the historical present; at this point in the narration of a series of past events

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

make less visible or unclear

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

the place where something begins, where it springs into being

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

above and across; more than

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

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

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

a writer of poems (the term is usually reserved for writers of good poetry)

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

a geometric element that has position but no extension

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

give an exhibition of to an interested audience

From this reading This theory, however, has at present no evidence to support it, and it is reasonable to assume that Chaucer was a native of London.

in accordance with truth or fact or reality

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

showing reason or sound judgment

From this reading This theory, however, has at present no evidence to support it, and it is reasonable to assume that Chaucer was a native of London.

have sovereign power

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

of or relating to or indicative of or issued or performed by a king or queen or other monarch

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

plural of “scholar” — a learned person (especially in the humanities); someone who by long study has gained mastery in one or more disciplines

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

plural of “seal” — fastener consisting of a resinous composition that is plastic when warm; used for sealing documents and parcels and letters

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

third-person singular of “seem” — give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

a person who makes or repairs shoes

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

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

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

a message that is stated or declared; a communication (oral or written) setting forth particulars or facts etc

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

a thoroughfare (usually including sidewalks) that is lined with buildings

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

to a sufficient degree

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

-ing form of “suggest” — make a proposal, declare a plan for something

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

the activity of providing for or maintaining by supplying with money or necessities

From this reading This theory, however, has at present no evidence to support it, and it is reasonable to assume that Chaucer was a native of London.

the longest river in England; flows eastward through London to the North Sea

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

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

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world; an organized system of accepted knowledge that applies in a variety of circumstances to explain a specific set of phenomena

From this reading This theory, however, has at present no evidence to support it, and it is reasonable to assume that Chaucer was a native of London.

in or at that place or location

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

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

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

in spite of the fact that

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

third-person singular of “thrive” — grow vigorously

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

-ing form of “throw” — propel through the air

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

an instance or single occasion for some event

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

a more or less definite period of time now or previously present

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

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

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

the cardinal number that is the sum of one and one or a numeral representing this number

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

without doubt; certainly

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

not known

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

a formal word for “on”

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

under normal conditions

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

in diverse ways

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

someone who sells wine

From this reading Most scholars are now agreed that Geoffrey Chaucer was born about 1340, and that his father was John Chaucer, a vintner of Thames Street, London, though at one time his birth was dated as early as 1328, and Mr. Snell, in his _Age of Chaucer_, endeavours further to darken counsel--already sufficiently obscure--by suggesting that there may have been two contemporary Geoffreys, and that the facts which are usually accepted as throwing light on the history of the poet may really apply to his unknown namesake.

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

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

used to introduce two or more possibilities

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.

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

From this reading CHAUCER'S LIFE AND TIMES "The biography of Chaucer is built upon doubts and thrives upon perplexities" according to one of the most famous of Chaucer scholars, and the more carefully we consider the evidence upon which this statement is based, the more fully do we find it endorsed.

belonging to which person

From this reading The name Chaucer itself has been variously derived from the Latin _calcearius_, a shoemaker, the French _chaussier_, a maker of long hose, and the French _chaufecire_, chafe-wax (_i. e._ a clerk of the court of Chancery whose duty consisted in affixing seals to royal documents).

in the company of; together with

From this reading The one point of agreement seems to be that the family was undoubtedly of French origin, though whether the founder of the English branch came over with the Conqueror or in Henry III's reign, cannot be decided.