Chapter I

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

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

unequivocally detestable

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

higher than, or over, something

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

establish or strengthen as with new evidence or facts

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

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

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

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

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

a human limb; technically the part of the superior limb between the shoulder and the elbow but commonly used to refer to the whole superior limb

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

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

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

the past participle of “be”

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

especially a leaf of grass or the broad portion of a leaf as distinct from the petiole

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

exhale hard

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

footwear that covers the whole foot and lower leg

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

the two together, not just one

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

the front of the trunk from the neck to the abdomen

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

physically and forcibly separated into pieces or cracked or split

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

inflected form of “bring” — take something or somebody with oneself somewhere

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

placed in a grave

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

to be able to, or to be allowed to

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

the particular occupation for which you are trained

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

at or within a short distance in space or time or having elements near each other

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

having a low or inadequate temperature or feeling a sensation of coldness or having been made cold by e.g. ice or refrigeration

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

plural of “combatant” — someone who fights (or is fighting)

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

in an all-inclusive manner

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

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

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

separate with or as if with an instrument

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

a Mid-Atlantic state; one of the original 13 colonies

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

act on verbally or in some form of artistic expression

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

inflected form of “deal” — act on verbally or in some form of artistic expression

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

the past form of “do”, used in questions and negatives

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

command with authority

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

plural of “dream” — a series of mental images and emotions occurring during sleep

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

the 3rd planet from the sun; the planet we live on

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

capacity or power to produce a desired effect

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

an opposing military force

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

divisible by two

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

at any time

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

a journey taken for pleasure

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

steadfast in affection or allegiance

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

a quantifier that can be used with count nouns and is often preceded by “a”; a small but indefinite number

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

moving swiftly

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

characterized by or full of force or strength (often but not necessarily physical)

From this reading As for the weapon which had dealt that same forceful stroke, its triumph was short-lived.

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

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

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

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

the solid part of the earth's surface

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

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

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

the (prehensile) extremity of the superior limb

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

plural of “head” — the upper part of the human body or the front part of the body in animals; contains the face and brains

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

the bottom of a shoe or boot; the back part of a shoe or boot that touches the ground and provides elevation

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

the handle of a sword or dagger

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

used when the man or boy doing the action is also its object

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

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

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

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

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

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

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

(used of conduct or character) deserving or bringing disgrace or shame

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

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

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

plural of “inch” — a unit of length equal to one twelfth of a foot

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

in truth (often tends to intensify)

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

moving to the inside of something

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned

From this reading As for the weapon which had dealt that same forceful stroke, its triumph was short-lived.

used when the thing doing the action is also its object

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

be cognizant or aware of a fact or a specific piece of information; possess knowledge or information about

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

apprehended with certainty

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

the land on which real estate is located

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

a systematic means of communicating by the use of sounds or conventional symbols

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

put into a certain place or abstract location

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

an animal skin made smooth and flexible by removing the hair and then tanning

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

location near or direction toward the left side; i.e. the side to the north when a person or object faces east

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

less than normal in degree or intensity or amount

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

in a healthy manner

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

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

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

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

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

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

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

water soaked soil; soft wet earth

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

(superlative of “near” or “close”) within the shortest distance

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

(of actions or states) slightly short of or not quite accomplished; all but

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

immediately following in time or order

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

an event that occurs at a critical time

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

something determined in relation to something that includes it

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

plural of “piece” — a separate part of a whole

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

a geometric element that has position but no extension

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

having great influence

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

conforming to the established language usage of educated native speakers

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

anything (such as a document or a phonograph record or a photograph) providing permanent evidence of or information about past events

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

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

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

Identical; not different.

From this reading As for the weapon which had dealt that same forceful stroke, its triumph was short-lived.

express in words

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

plural of “second” — 1/60 of a minute; the basic unit of time adopted under the Systeme International d'Unites

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

act as a barrier between; stand between

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

detached by cutting

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

lasting a very short time

From this reading As for the weapon which had dealt that same forceful stroke, its triumph was short-lived.

make (offspring) by reproduction

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

(with verb “to blow”) destroyed completely; blown apart or to pieces

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

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

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

having rugged physical strength; inured to fatigue or hardships

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

an alloy of iron with small amounts of carbon; widely used in construction; mechanical properties can be varied over a wide range

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

dependable

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

(sports) the act of swinging or striking at a ball with a club or racket or bat or cue or hand

From this reading As for the weapon which had dealt that same forceful stroke, its triumph was short-lived.

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

happening without warning or in a short space of time

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

inflected form of “swear” — utter obscenities or profanities

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

used to introduce the second part of a comparison

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

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

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

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

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

the content of cognition; the main thing you are thinking about

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

the cardinal number that is the sum of one and one and one

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

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

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

in contact with each other or in proximity

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

a successful ending of a struggle or contest

From this reading As for the weapon which had dealt that same forceful stroke, its triumph was short-lived.

not conscious; lacking awareness and the capacity for sensory perception as if asleep or dead

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

below or beneath something; less than

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

know and comprehend the nature or meaning of

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

a formal word for “on”

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

precisely as stated

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

characterized by forceful and energetic action or activity

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

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

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

how something is done or how it happens

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

any instrument or instrumentality used in fighting or hunting

From this reading As for the weapon which had dealt that same forceful stroke, its triumph was short-lived.

inflected form of “go” — change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

used to ask for information about something

From this reading I have not a faithful record of what he did say, but from what I know of Messire, I can indeed affirm that his language on the occasion was as potent as it was direct and to the point.

at the time that

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

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

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

an old and formal word for “while”

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

which person or people

From this reading The hilt went flying sky-high above the heads of the nearest combatants; part of the blade was ground into the mud under the heel of Messire's stout leather boot, whilst the point itself--together with a few more inches of cold steel--was buried in the breast of that abominable spadassin who had thought to lay so stalwart an enemy low.

in the company of; together with

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.

inside; before a period of time has passed

From this reading Within the next few seconds its unconscious career upon this earth was brought to a sudden and ignominious close: it was broken into three separate pieces by a blow more vigorous than even Messire Gilles himself had ever been known to deal.

a joint between the distal end of the radius and the proximal row of carpal bones

From this reading HOW MESSIRE GILLES DE CROHIN WENT FOR AN EXCURSION INTO THE LAND OF DREAMS When Gilles de Crohin, Sire de Froidmont, received that sabre-cut upon his wrist--a cut, by the way, which had been dealt with such efficacy that it very nearly severed his left hand from his arm--he swore, so I understand, both lustily and comprehensively.