used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
be able to spare or give up
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
afloatadjectiveUS /əˈfloʊt/
aimlessly drifting
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
afterprepositionUS /ˈæftər/
later than; following
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
anew
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
fear resulting from the awareness of danger
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
anchornounUS /ˈæŋkər/
a mechanical device that prevents a vessel from moving
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
anchoredverbUS /ˈæŋkərd/
past form of “anchor” — fix firmly and stably
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
any thing at all
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
apieceadverbUS /əˈpiːs/
to or from every one of two or more (considered individually)
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
past form of “appear” — give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
asternadverb
stern foremost or backward
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
being joined in close association
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
attainedadjectiveUS /əˈteɪnd/
achieved or reached
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
earnest and conscientious activity intended to do or accomplish something
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
in or to or toward a former location
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
backedadjectiveUS /bækt/
having a back or backing, usually of a specified type
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
an area of sand sloping down to the water of a sea or lake
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
beingauxiliary verbUS /ˈbiːɪŋ/
the -ing form of “be”
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
in addition to; as well as
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
bivouacnounUS /ˈbɪvwæk/
temporary living quarters specially built by the army for soldiers
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
a small vessel for travel on water
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
boat-anchor
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
plural of “boat” — a small vessel for travel on water
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
move up and down repeatedly
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
the two together, not just one
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
showing who or what does the action
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
canoenounUS /kəˈnuː/
small and light boat; pointed at both ends; propelled with a paddle
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
taking care or paying attention
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
inflected form of “carry” — move while supporting, either in a vehicle or in one's hands or on one's body
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
channelnounUS /ˈtʃænəl/
a path over which electrical signals can pass
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
carefully weighed
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
without stop or interruption
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
the past of “can”; used for possibility or polite requests
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
education imparted in a series of lessons or meetings
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
cutternounUS /ˈkʌtər/
someone who cuts or carves stone
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
past form of “dare” — take upon oneself; act presumptuously, without permission
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
recognizable; marked
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
command with authority
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
the property created by the space between two objects or points
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
with ease (“easy” is sometimes used informally for “easily”)
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
either extremity of something that has length
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
divisible by two
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
all things; all of a situation
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
decreasing in amount or degree
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
an event (or a course of events) that will inevitably happen in the future
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
the cardinal number that is the sum of four and one
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
fleetnounUS /fliːt/
group of aircraft operating together under the same ownership
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
showing where something starts, or who sent it
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
in a gradual manner
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
givenadjectiveUS /ˈɡɪvən/
acknowledged as a supposition
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
inflected form of “get” — come into the possession of something concrete or abstract
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/
the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
half-a
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
(with “in”) guardianship over; in divorce cases it is the right to house and care for and discipline a child
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
decoration that is hung (as a tapestry) on a wall or over a window
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
belonging to a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
the male already mentioned, as the object of a verb or preposition
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
cause to continue in a certain state, position, or activity; e.g., “keep clean”
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
on condition that; in the event that
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/
moving to the inside of something
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
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 So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
held up in the air
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
of comparatively little physical weight or density
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
less than normal in degree or intensity or amount
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
thing or person that acts to produce a particular effect or achieve an end
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
past form of “mention” — make reference to
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
a unit of length equal to 1,760 yards or 5,280 feet; exactly 1609.344 meters
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
mooredverbUS /mʊrd/
past form of “moor” — secure in or as if in a berth or dock
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
the opening through which food is taken in and vocalizations emerge
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
noiselesslyadverb
without a sound
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
in the historical present; at this point in the narration of a series of past events
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
the property possessed by a sum or total or indefinite quantity of units or individuals
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
oarnounUS /ɔːr/
an implement used to propel or steer a boat
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
oarsnounUS /ɔːrz/
plural of “oar” — an implement used to propel or steer a boat
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
from a particular thing or place or position (“forth” is obsolete)
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
offingnounUS /ˈɔːfɪŋ/
the near or foreseeable future
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
many times at short intervals
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
touching and supported by a surface
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
used to mean any person in general, including the speaker
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
and nothing more
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
belonging to the speaker and others
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
not allowed to continue to bat or run
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
overprepositionUS /ˈoʊvər/
above and across; more than
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
overtakeverbUS /ˈoʊvərteɪk/
catch up with and possibly overtake
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
painternounUS /ˈpeɪntər/
an artist who paints
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
paintersnounUS /ˈpeɪntərz/
plural of “painter” — an artist who paints
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
being complete of its kind and without defect or blemish
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
completely and without qualification; used informally as intensifiers
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
select carefully from a group
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
piratesnounUS /ˈpaɪrəts/
plural of “pirate” — someone who uses another person's words or ideas as if they were his own
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
situated in a particular spot or position
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
a geometric element that has position but no extension
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
the particular portion of space occupied by something
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
the act of having and controlling property
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
a future prospect or potential
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
keep from happening or arising; make impossible
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
past form of “pull” — cause to move by pulling
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
puntverbUS /pʌnt/
kick the ball
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
the act of pursuing in an effort to overtake or capture
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
with speed
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
located or moved above the surround or above the normal position
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
completely prepared or in condition for immediate action or use or progress
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
past form of “remain” — stay the same; remain in a certain state
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
not move; be in a resting position
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
roundedadjectiveUS /ˈraʊndəd/
curving and somewhat round in shape rather than jagged
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
free from danger or the risk of harm
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
the seventh and last day of the week; observed as the Sabbath by Jews and some Christians
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
get by special effort
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
perceive by sight or have the power to perceive by sight
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
the land along the edge of a body of water
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
primarily temporal sense; indicating or being or seeming to be limited in duration
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
for that reason; with the result that
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
inflected form of “step” — shift or move by taking a step
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
sternadjectiveUS /stɜːrn/
of a stern or strict bearing or demeanor; forbidding in aspect
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
stern-sheets
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
not in physical motion
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
stringnounUS /strɪŋ/
a lightweight cord
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
of the kind already mentioned
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
swimmingnounUS /ˈswɪmɪŋ/
the act of swimming
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
carry out
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
the act of someone who picks up or takes something
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
belonging to the people or things already mentioned
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
the people or things already mentioned, as the object
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors)
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
in or at that place or location
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
for that reason; as a result
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
the content of cognition; the main thing you are thinking about
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
townounUS /toʊ/
the act of hauling something (as a vehicle) by means of a hitch or rope
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
tranquiladjectiveUS /ˈtræŋkwəl/
(of a body of water) free from disturbance by heavy waves
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
transpiredverbUS /trænˈspaɪərd/
past form of “transpire” — pass through the tissue or substance or its pores or interstices, as of gas
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
(usually followed by “to”) not having the necessary means or skill or know-how
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
unconcernnounUS /ˌʌnkənˈsɜːrn/
the trait of remaining calm and seeming not to care; a casual lack of concern
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
unlikelyadjectiveUS /ənˈlaɪkli/
not likely to be true or to occur or to have occurred
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
untilprepositionUS /ənˈtɪl/
up to a particular time
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
being or moving higher in position or greater in some value; being above a former position or level
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
the speaker and others, as the object of a verb or preposition
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
precisely as stated
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
binary compound that occurs at room temperature as a clear colorless odorless tasteless liquid; freezes into ice below 0 degrees centigrade and boils above 100 degrees centigrade; widely used as a solvent
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
how something is done or how it happens
From this reading We decided to take the boats, five in number besides the punt, over to the mouth of the channel, and anchor them there until we could pick them up again on our way out in the cutter, and then go back after our canoe, so as to prevent the possibility of her falling into the hands of the pirates.
the speaker together with one or more other people
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/
the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading They were moored at but a very short distance from the beach, one of them being anchored, and the rest hanging by their painters in a string, astern of her.
at the time that
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
an old and formal word for “while”
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
including all components without exception; being one unit or constituting the full amount or extent or duration; complete
From this reading Bob backed the punt gently off until I had got hold of the painter of the anchored boat, which I easily raised, there being only a small boat-anchor attached to its end; this I carefully placed in the stern of the punt in such a position as to afford a secure hold, and then, taking an oar apiece, we pulled noiselessly and as quickly as we dared direct off shore, with the whole fleet of boats in tow astern of us.
in the company of; together with
From this reading So it appeared, and we therefore left him, with perfect unconcern, to his fate; lifted the light boat and carried her into the water until she was afloat, and then stepped noiselessly into her--Bob taking both oars, whilst I sat in the stern-sheets ready to take possession of the other boats.
used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past
From this reading I considered that we were safe when we had attained an offing of half-a- mile, for I thought it very unlikely that the pirates would then attempt to overtake us by swimming--the only means of pursuit they now had--even if an alarm were given; but everything still remained perfectly tranquil, and continued so until we had rounded the low point so often mentioned: after which, of course, we _were_ unable to see anything which transpired in the bivouac.
