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Etidorhpa
Etidorhpa

Chapter XV

Chapter 15 of Etidorhpa is here in full — 39 sentences across 8 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Cover illustration for Etidorhpa
Context Illustration Reading 1/7 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
THE CRY FROM A DISTANCE.--I REBEL AGAINST CONTINUING THE JOURNEY.
As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.
The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.
They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.
Like an accompanying and encircling halo the ever present earth-light enveloped us, opening in front as we advanced, and vanishing in the rear.
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AI-generated narration by OpenAI · Slow US English
LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

Etidorhpa

Chapter XV

Chapter 15 of Etidorhpa is here in full — 39 sentences across 8 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/7 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
THE CRY FROM A DISTANCE.--I REBEL AGAINST CONTINUING THE JOURNEY.
Line 2
As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.
Line 3
The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.
Line 4
They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.
Line 5
Like an accompanying and encircling halo the ever present earth-light enveloped us, opening in front as we advanced, and vanishing in the rear.

Learner Dictionary

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

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

encircling adjective US /enˈsɜːrkəlɪŋ/

being all around the edges; enclosing

From this reading “Like an accompanying and encircling halo the ever present earth-light enveloped us, opening in front as we advanced, and vanishing in the rear.”

fungi noun US /ˈfʌndʒaɪ/

the taxonomic kingdom including yeast, molds, smuts, mushrooms, and toadstools; distinct from the green plants

From this reading “The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.”

increasingly adverb US /ɪnˈkriːsɪŋli/

advancing in amount or intensity

From this reading “They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.”

recurring adjective US /rɪˈkɜːrɪŋ/

coming back

From this reading “The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.”

resemblances noun US /riˈzemblənsəz/

plural of “resemblance” — similarity in appearance or external or superficial details

From this reading “They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.”

saline noun US /səˈliːn/

an isotonic solution of sodium chloride and distilled water

From this reading “The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.”

steeper noun US /ˈstiːpər/

a vessel (usually a pot or vat) used for steeping

From this reading “They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.”

successively adverb US /səkˈsesɪvli/

in proper order or sequence

From this reading “The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.”

Word partnerships in these lines

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

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

endless variety adjective + noun

In this reading “The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.”

became increasingly verb + particle counted as “become increasingly”

In this reading “They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.”

familiar objects adjective + noun counted as “familiar object”

In this reading “They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.”

in front preposition + noun

at or in the front

In this reading “Like an accompanying and encircling halo the ever present earth-light enveloped us, opening in front as we advanced, and vanishing in the rear.”

became more verb + adjective counted as “become more”

In this reading “As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.”

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

In this reading “Like an accompanying and encircling halo the ever present earth-light enveloped us, opening in front as we advanced, and vanishing in the rear.”

FROM A DISTANCE preposition + article + noun counted as “from … distance”

In this reading “THE CRY FROM A DISTANCE.--I REBEL AGAINST CONTINUING THE JOURNEY.”

make out verb + adjective

detect with the senses

In this reading “They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.”

All words in this reading · 107

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

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

AdeterminerUS /ə/

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

From this reading THE CRY FROM A DISTANCE.--I REBEL AGAINST CONTINUING THE JOURNEY.

accompanyingadjectiveUS /əˈkʌmpəniɪŋ/

occurring with or following as a consequence

From this reading Like an accompanying and encircling halo the ever present earth-light enveloped us, opening in front as we advanced, and vanishing in the rear.

advancedadjectiveUS /ədˈvænst/

farther along in physical or mental development

From this reading Like an accompanying and encircling halo the ever present earth-light enveloped us, opening in front as we advanced, and vanishing in the rear.

AGAINSTprepositionUS /əˈɡenst/

touching and pressing; in opposition to

From this reading THE CRY FROM A DISTANCE.--I REBEL AGAINST CONTINUING THE JOURNEY.

alongprepositionUS /əˈlɔːŋ/

following the length of something from one end toward the other

From this reading As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.

andeterminerUS /æn/

the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

anglenounUS /ˈæŋɡəl/

the space between two lines or planes that intersect; the inclination of one line to another; measured in degrees or radians

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

animalsnounUS /ˈænəməlz/

plural of “animal” — a living organism characterized by voluntary movement

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

appearancenounUS /əˈpɪrəns/

outward or visible aspect of a person or thing

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

AsconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.

atprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

becameverbUS /bɪˈkeɪm/

inflected form of “become” — enter or assume a certain state or condition

From this reading As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.

beforeprepositionUS /bɪˈfɔːr/

earlier than; in front of

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

belowprepositionUS /bɪˈloʊ/

at or to a lower level than something

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

boreverbUS /bɔːr/

cause to be bored

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

cavernnounUS /ˈkæv.ərn/

A large, vast underground cave, often filled with forgotten ancient treasures.

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

ceilingnounUS /ˈsiːlɪŋ/

the overhead upper surface of a covered space

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

changedadjectiveUS /tʃeɪndʒd/

made or become different in nature or form

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

conditionnounUS /kənˈdɪʃən/

a state at a particular time

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

CONTINUINGadjectiveUS /kənˈtɪnjuːɪŋ/

remaining in force or being carried on without letup

From this reading THE CRY FROM A DISTANCE.--I REBEL AGAINST CONTINUING THE JOURNEY.

correspondingadjectiveUS /ˌkɔːrəˈspɑːndɪŋ/

accompanying

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

couldmodal verbUS /kʊd/

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

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

CRYverbUS /kraɪ/

utter a sudden loud cry

From this reading THE CRY FROM A DISTANCE.--I REBEL AGAINST CONTINUING THE JOURNEY.

cryptogams

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

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

decidedadjectiveUS /ˌdɪˈsaɪdɪd/

recognizable; marked

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

declinationnoun

a condition inferior to an earlier condition; a gradual falling off from a better state

From this reading As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.

DISTANCEnounUS /ˈdɪstəns/

the property created by the space between two objects or points

From this reading THE CRY FROM A DISTANCE.--I REBEL AGAINST CONTINUING THE JOURNEY.

distortedadjectiveUS /dɪˈstɔːrtəd/

so badly formed or out of shape as to be ugly

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

downadjectiveUS /daʊn/

being or moving lower in position or less in some value

From this reading As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.

earth-light

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

From this reading Like an accompanying and encircling halo the ever present earth-light enveloped us, opening in front as we advanced, and vanishing in the rear.

encirclingadjectiveUS /enˈsɜːrkəlɪŋ/

being all around the edges; enclosing

From this reading Like an accompanying and encircling halo the ever present earth-light enveloped us, opening in front as we advanced, and vanishing in the rear.

endlessadjectiveUS /ˈendləs/

tiresomely long; seemingly without end

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

envelopedverbUS /enˈveləpt/

past form of “envelop” — enclose or enfold completely with or as if with a covering

From this reading Like an accompanying and encircling halo the ever present earth-light enveloped us, opening in front as we advanced, and vanishing in the rear.

everadverbUS /ˈevər/

at any time

From this reading Like an accompanying and encircling halo the ever present earth-light enveloped us, opening in front as we advanced, and vanishing in the rear.

eyesnounUS /aɪz/

opinion or judgment

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

factnounUS /fækt/

a piece of information about circumstances that exist or events that have occurred

From this reading As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.

familiaradjectiveUS /fəˈmɪljər/

well known or easily recognized

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

figuresnounUS /ˈfɪɡjərz/

plural of “figure” — a diagram or picture illustrating textual material

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

fixedadjectiveUS /fɪkst/

(of a number) having a fixed and unchanging value

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

floornounUS /flɔːr/

the inside lower horizontal surface (as of a room, hallway, tent, or other structure)

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

FROMprepositionUS /frʌm/

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading THE CRY FROM A DISTANCE.--I REBEL AGAINST CONTINUING THE JOURNEY.

frontnounUS /frʌnt/

the side that is forward or prominent

From this reading Like an accompanying and encircling halo the ever present earth-light enveloped us, opening in front as we advanced, and vanishing in the rear.

funginounUS /ˈfʌndʒaɪ/

the taxonomic kingdom including yeast, molds, smuts, mushrooms, and toadstools; distinct from the green plants

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

halonounUS /ˈheɪloʊ/

an indication of radiant light drawn around the head of a saint

From this reading Like an accompanying and encircling halo the ever present earth-light enveloped us, opening in front as we advanced, and vanishing in the rear.

hangingnounUS /ˈhæŋɪŋ/

decoration that is hung (as a tapestry) on a wall or over a window

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

hereadverbUS /hiːr/

in or at this place; where the speaker or writer is

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

IpronounUS /aɪ/

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

From this reading THE CRY FROM A DISTANCE.--I REBEL AGAINST CONTINUING THE JOURNEY.

impressedadjectiveUS /ˌɪmˈprest/

deeply or markedly affected or influenced

From this reading As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

increasinglyadverbUS /ɪnˈkriːsɪŋli/

advancing in amount or intensity

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

incrustations

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

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

invisibleadjectiveUS /ˌɪnˈvɪzəbəl/

impossible or nearly impossible to see; imperceptible by the eye

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

JOURNEYverbUS /ˈdʒɜːrni/

undertake a journey or trip

From this reading THE CRY FROM A DISTANCE.--I REBEL AGAINST CONTINUING THE JOURNEY.

leastadjectiveUS /liːst/

the superlative of “little” that can be used with mass nouns and is usually preceded by “the”; a quantifier meaning smallest in amount or extent or degree

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

LikeverbUS /laɪk/

prefer or wish to do something

From this reading Like an accompanying and encircling halo the ever present earth-light enveloped us, opening in front as we advanced, and vanishing in the rear.

madeadjectiveUS /meɪd/

produced by a manufacturing process

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

makeverbUS /meɪk/

engage in

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

manyadjectiveUS /ˈmeni/

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

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

meditatingverbUS /ˈmedəteɪtɪŋ/

-ing form of “meditate” — reflect deeply on a subject

From this reading As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.

mindnounUS /maɪnd/

The element of a person that enables awareness and thought.

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

moreadjectiveUS /mɔːr/

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

From this reading As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.

mydeterminerUS /maɪ/

belonging to the person speaking

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

objectsnounUS /ˈɑːbdʒekts/

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

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

openingnounUS /ˈoʊpənɪŋ/

an open or empty space in or between things

From this reading Like an accompanying and encircling halo the ever present earth-light enveloped us, opening in front as we advanced, and vanishing in the rear.

orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

ourdeterminerUS /ˈaʊər/

belonging to the speaker and others

From this reading As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.

outadjectiveUS /aʊt/

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

pacedverbUS /peɪst/

past form of “pace” — walk with slow or fast paces

From this reading As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.

presentverbUS /ˈprezənt/

give an exhibition of to an interested audience

From this reading Like an accompanying and encircling halo the ever present earth-light enveloped us, opening in front as we advanced, and vanishing in the rear.

progressnounUS /ˈprɑːɡres/

gradual improvement or growth or development

From this reading As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.

rapidadjectiveUS /ˈræpəd/

done or occurring in a brief period of time

From this reading As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.

rapidlyadverbUS /ˈræpədli/

with speed

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

rearnounUS /rɪr/

the back of a military formation or procession

From this reading Like an accompanying and encircling halo the ever present earth-light enveloped us, opening in front as we advanced, and vanishing in the rear.

REBELnounUS /ˈrebəl/

“Johnny” was applied as a nickname for Confederate soldiers by the Federal soldiers in the American Civil War; “greyback” derived from their grey Confederate uniforms

From this reading THE CRY FROM A DISTANCE.--I REBEL AGAINST CONTINUING THE JOURNEY.

recurringadjectiveUS /rɪˈkɜːrɪŋ/

coming back

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

resemblancesnounUS /riˈzemblənsəz/

plural of “resemblance” — similarity in appearance or external or superficial details

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

salinenounUS /səˈliːn/

an isotonic solution of sodium chloride and distilled water

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

sensiblyadverbUS /ˈsensəbli/

with good sense or in a reasonable or intelligent manner

From this reading As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.

shapenounUS /ʃeɪp/

any spatial attributes (especially as defined by outline)

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

shownverbUS /ʃoʊn/

inflected form of “show” — give an exhibition of to an interested audience

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

shrubsnounUS /ʃrʌbz/

plural of “shrub” — a low woody perennial plant usually having several major stems

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

silentadjectiveUS /ˈsaɪlənt/

marked by absence of sound

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

similaradjectiveUS /ˈsɪmələr/

marked by correspondence or resemblance

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

stalactites

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

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

stalagmites

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

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

statuesnounUS /ˈstætʃuːz/

plural of “statue” — a sculpture representing a human or animal

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

steepernounUS /ˈstiːpər/

a vessel (usually a pot or vat) used for steeping

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

stonyadjectiveUS /ˈstoʊni/

abounding in rocks or stones

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

successivelyadverbUS /səkˈsesɪvli/

in proper order or sequence

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

suchdeterminerUS /sʌtʃ/

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.

THEdeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading THE CRY FROM A DISTANCE.--I REBEL AGAINST CONTINUING THE JOURNEY.

thereadverbUS /ðer/

in or at that place or location

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

TheypronounUS /ðeɪ/

the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

treesnounUS /triːz/

plural of “tree” — a tall perennial woody plant having a main trunk and branches forming a distinct elevated crown; includes both gymnosperms and angiosperms

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

uspronounUS /ʌs/

the speaker and others, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading Like an accompanying and encircling halo the ever present earth-light enveloped us, opening in front as we advanced, and vanishing in the rear.

vanishingnounUS /ˈvænɪʃɪŋ/

a sudden or mysterious disappearance

From this reading Like an accompanying and encircling halo the ever present earth-light enveloped us, opening in front as we advanced, and vanishing in the rear.

varietynounUS /vərˈaɪəti/

a collection containing a variety of sorts of things

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

vegetablenounUS /ˈvedʒtəbəl/

edible seeds or roots or stems or leaves or bulbs or tubers or nonsweet fruits of any of numerous herbaceous plant

From this reading The saline incrustations, fungi and stalagmites, rapidly changed in appearance, an endless variety of stony figures and vegetable cryptogams recurring successively before my eyes.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

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

From this reading As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.

wepronounUS /wiː/

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

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

From this reading They bore the shape of trees, shrubs, or animals, fixed and silent as statues: at least in my distorted condition of mind I could make out resemblances to many such familiar objects; the floor of the cavern became increasingly steeper, as was shown by the stalactites, which, hanging here and there from the invisible ceiling, made a decided angle with the floor, corresponding with a similar angle of the stalagmites below.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading As we paced along, meditating, I became more sensibly impressed with the fact that our progress was down a rapid declination.

Chapter 15 of Etidorhpa by John Uri Lloyd holds 39 sentences, grouped into 8 reading sections of at most 5 sentences. The text is the source edition, unabridged, and the chapter records which sentences cover which part of the work so that nothing is dropped. Every word can be tapped for its pronunciation and dictionary entry.

What does chapter 15 of Etidorhpa contain?

Chapter 15 holds 39 sentences of Etidorhpa, unabridged, divided into 8 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 15 of Etidorhpa by John Uri Lloyd exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 39 sentences, grouped into 8 sections of at most 5 sentences so that a reader can take the chapter in steady, finishable pieces. The chapter also stores a coverage record mapping every one of its sentences to a part of the work, which is how the edition demonstrates that no line was dropped.

How do I study chapter 15 of Etidorhpa?

Work through the 8 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 8 sections in this chapter is short enough to read once, hear once, and then re-read with the vocabulary in view. Tapping a word plays it alone and opens its dictionary entry with IPA, part of speech and meaning, so the reader is never forced to guess a pronunciation from spelling. Working section by section keeps a long chapter from becoming an undifferentiated wall of text, which is the usual reason a reader abandons a work of this period.

Can chapter 15 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 15 can be played aloud in United States English.

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

Questions about reading Etidorhpa

Common questions about reading Etidorhpa by John Uri Lloyd on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of Etidorhpa?

Yes. All 5262 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #37775 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of Etidorhpa is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #37775, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does Etidorhpa take to read?

About 438 minutes of reading across 1053 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read Etidorhpa section by section

How to work through Etidorhpa section by section, using the audio and the tap-to-define vocabulary.

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 40 chapters of Etidorhpa to begin.

  2. Read one section

    Each section holds 5 sentences; read it once through.

  3. Listen and tap

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

Vocabulary met early in Etidorhpa

Words and structures a reader meets early in Etidorhpa, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Earth
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Etidorhpa; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Account
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Etidorhpa; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Remarkable
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Etidorhpa; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Journey
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Etidorhpa; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.