10
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
20
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
30
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
AbrahamnounUS /ˈeɪbrəhæm/
the first of the Old Testament patriarchs and the father of Isaac; according to Genesis, God promised to give Abraham's family (the Hebrews) the land of Canaan (the Promised Land); God tested Abraham by asking him to sacrifice his son
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
accentsnounUS /ˈæksents/
plural of “accent” — distinctive manner of oral expression
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
the quality of having a superior or more favorable position
From this reading “But,” said the Brother, “if we here are tried, A spirit sent would put that law aside; It gives to some advantage others need, Or hurts the sinner, should it not succeed.
(quantifier) used with either mass or count nouns to indicate the whole number or amount of or every one of a class
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
answer'd
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
areauxiliary verbUS /ɑːr/
the form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
on or to one side
From this reading “But,” said the Brother, “if we here are tried, A spirit sent would put that law aside; It gives to some advantage others need, Or hurts the sinner, should it not succeed.
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
BARBARA
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
belowprepositionUS /bɪˈloʊ/
at or to a lower level than something
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
confined by bonds
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
brethrennounUS /ˈbreðrən/
(plural) the lay members of a male religious order
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
take something or somebody with oneself somewhere
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
a male with the same parents as someone else
From this reading “But,” said the Brother, “if we here are tried, A spirit sent would put that law aside; It gives to some advantage others need, Or hurts the sinner, should it not succeed.
plural of “brother” — a male with the same parents as someone else
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading “But,” said the Brother, “if we here are tried, A spirit sent would put that law aside; It gives to some advantage others need, Or hurts the sinner, should it not succeed.
showing who or what does the action
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
inflected form of “come” — move toward, travel toward something or somebody or approach something or somebody
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
move toward, travel toward something or somebody or approach something or somebody
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
the act of drawing spatially closer to something
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
convictedverbUS /kənˈvɪktəd/
past form of “convict” — find or declare guilty
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
plural of “creature” — a living organism characterized by voluntary movement
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
utter a sudden loud cry
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
no longer having or seeming to have or expecting to have life
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
the feeling that accompanies an unsatisfied state
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
DivesnounUS /daɪvz/
plural of “dive” — a cheap disreputable nightclub or dance hall
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
doubtsnounUS /daʊts/
plural of “doubt” — the state of being unsure of something
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
A series of thoughts, images, or emotions during sleep.
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
a phenomenon that follows and is caused by some previous phenomenon
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
errandnounUS /ˈerənd/
a short trip that is taken in the performance of a necessary task or mission
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
fadingnounUS /ˈfeɪdɪŋ/
weakening in force or intensity
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
failsverbUS /feɪlz/
third-person singular of “fail” — fail to do something; leave something undone
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
an event (or a course of events) that will inevitably happen in the future
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
a competitor thought likely to win
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
mat together and make felt-like
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
the soft tissue of the body of a vertebrate: mainly muscle tissue and fat
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
flownounUS /floʊ/
the motion characteristic of fluids (liquids or gases)
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
the phonological or orthographic sound or appearance of a word that can be used to describe or identify something
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
freedverbUS /friːd/
past form of “free” — grant freedom to; free from confinement
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
showing where something starts, or who sent it
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
motion of hands or body to emphasize or help to express a thought or feeling
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
a mental representation of some haunting experience
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
GhostsnounUS /ɡoʊsts/
plural of “ghost” — a mental representation of some haunting experience
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
cause to have, in the abstract sense or physical sense
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
plural of “give” — the elasticity of something that can be stretched and returns to its original length
From this reading “But,” said the Brother, “if we here are tried, A spirit sent would put that law aside; It gives to some advantage others need, Or hurts the sinner, should it not succeed.
a state of partial or total darkness
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
(Christian theology) a state of sanctification by God; the state of one who is under such divine influence
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
greater in size or importance or degree
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
guidesnounUS /ɡaɪdz/
plural of “guide” — someone employed to conduct others
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
responsible for or chargeable with a reprehensible act
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
the (prehensile) extremity of the superior limb
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
hardensverbUS /ˈhɑːrdənz/
third-person singular of “harden” — become hard or harder
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/
used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
the locus of feelings and intuitions
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
a form of whist in which players avoid winning tricks containing hearts or the queen of spades
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
in or at this place; where the speaker or writer is
From this reading “But,” said the Brother, “if we here are tried, A spirit sent would put that law aside; It gives to some advantage others need, Or hurts the sinner, should it not succeed.
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
horrorsnounUS /ˈhɔːrərz/
plural of “horror” — intense and profound fear
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
a period of time equal to 1/24th of a day
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
how
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
hurtsnounUS /hɜːrts/
plural of “hurt” — any physical damage to the body caused by violence or accident or fracture etc.
From this reading “But,” said the Brother, “if we here are tried, A spirit sent would put that law aside; It gives to some advantage others need, Or hurts the sinner, should it not succeed.
the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
on condition that; in the event that
From this reading “But,” said the Brother, “if we here are tried, A spirit sent would put that law aside; It gives to some advantage others need, Or hurts the sinner, should it not succeed.
impartverbUS /ˌɪmˈpɑːrt/
transmit (knowledge or skills)
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
be cognizant or aware of a fact or a specific piece of information; possess knowledge or information about
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
apprehended with certainty
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
a polite name for any woman
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
the collection of rules imposed by authority
From this reading “But,” said the Brother, “if we here are tried, A spirit sent would put that law aside; It gives to some advantage others need, Or hurts the sinner, should it not succeed.
the superlative of “little” that can be used with mass nouns and is usually preceded by “the”; a quantifier meaning smallest in amount or extent or degree
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
letauxiliary verbUS /let/
used to make a suggestion or a command including the speaker
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
plural of “lip” — either of two fleshy folds of tissue that surround the mouth and play a role in speaking
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
perceive with attention; direct one's gaze towards
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
a strong positive emotion of regard and affection
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
the force of workers available
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
used to say something is possible but not certain
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
The element of a person that enables awareness and thought.
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
(comparative of “much” used with mass nouns) a quantifier meaning greater in size or amount or extent or degree
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
the use of movements (especially of the hands) to communicate familiar or prearranged signals
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
used to say something is necessary, or almost certainly true
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
belonging to the person speaking
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
a condition requiring relief
From this reading “But,” said the Brother, “if we here are tried, A spirit sent would put that law aside; It gives to some advantage others need, Or hurts the sinner, should it not succeed.
not any; not one
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative
From this reading “But,” said the Brother, “if we here are tried, A spirit sent would put that law aside; It gives to some advantage others need, Or hurts the sinner, should it not succeed.
an announcement containing information about an event
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
in the historical present; at this point in the narration of a series of past events
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
obstinateadjectiveUS /ˈɑːbstənət/
tenaciously unwilling or marked by tenacious unwillingness to yield
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
touching and supported by a surface
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
used to mean any person in general, including the speaker
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
and nothing more
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
used to join alternatives or possibilities
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
others
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading “But,” said the Brother, “if we here are tried, A spirit sent would put that law aside; It gives to some advantage others need, Or hurts the sinner, should it not succeed.
be shown or be found to be
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
put into a certain place or abstract location
From this reading “But,” said the Brother, “if we here are tried, A spirit sent would put that law aside; It gives to some advantage others need, Or hurts the sinner, should it not succeed.
a rational motive for a belief or action
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
rejectverbUS /rɪˈdʒekt/
refuse to accept or acknowledge
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
relateverbUS /rɪˈleɪt/
make a logical or causal connection
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
repentverbUS /rɪˈpent/
turn away from sin or do penitence
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
Richard
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
precisely, exactly
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
being the one previously mentioned or spoken of
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
third-person singular of “seem” — give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
100 senti equal 1 kroon in Estonia
From this reading “But,” said the Brother, “if we here are tried, A spirit sent would put that law aside; It gives to some advantage others need, Or hurts the sinner, should it not succeed.
used to say what is right, expected, or advisable
From this reading “But,” said the Brother, “if we here are tried, A spirit sent would put that law aside; It gives to some advantage others need, Or hurts the sinner, should it not succeed.
sinnernounUS /ˈsɪnər/
a person who sins (without repenting)
From this reading “But,” said the Brother, “if we here are tried, A spirit sent would put that law aside; It gives to some advantage others need, Or hurts the sinner, should it not succeed.
not moving quickly; taking a comparatively long time
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
dignified and somber in manner or character and committed to keeping promises
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
(quantifier) used with either mass nouns or plural count nouns to indicate an unspecified number or quantity
From this reading “But,” said the Brother, “if we here are tried, A spirit sent would put that law aside; It gives to some advantage others need, Or hurts the sinner, should it not succeed.
the vital principle or animating force within living things
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
an alcoholic beverage that is distilled rather than fermented
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
support consisting of a radial member of a wheel joining the hub to the rim
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
plural of “story” — a message that tells the particulars of an act or occurrence or course of events; presented in writing or drama or cinema or as a radio or television program
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
having strength or power greater than average or expected
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
attain success or reach a desired goal
From this reading “But,” said the Brother, “if we here are tried, A spirit sent would put that law aside; It gives to some advantage others need, Or hurts the sinner, should it not succeed.
express a supposition
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
having or feeling no doubt or uncertainty; confident and assured
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
an overwhelming feeling of fear and anxiety
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
belonging to the people or things already mentioned
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
the people or things already mentioned, as the object
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
themenounUS /θiːm/
the subject matter of a conversation or discussion
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
a special situation
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
any movable possession (especially articles of clothing)
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
judge or regard; look upon; judge
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
the plural of “that”: the people or things further away, or already known
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
threateningadjectiveUS /ˈθretənɪŋ/
threatening or foreshadowing evil or tragic developments
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
to a degree exceeding normal or proper limits
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
tested and proved useful or correct
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
consistent with fact or reality; not false
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
a fact that has been verified
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
change orientation or direction, also in the abstract sense
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
not known
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
unmovedadjectiveUS /ənˈmuːvd/
emotionally unmoved
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
a way of regarding situations or topics etc.
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
warnverbUS /wɔːrn/
notify of danger, potential harm, or risk
From this reading ‘If from the dead,’ said Dives, ‘one were sent To warn my brethren, sure they would repent;’ 20 But Abraham answer’d, [‘If] they now reject The guides they have, no more would that effect; Their doubts too obstinate for grace would prove, For wonder hardens hearts it fails to move.’
a message informing of danger
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
past form of “wave” — signal with the hands or nod
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
the speaker together with one or more other people
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/
the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
at the time that
From this reading “Suppose a sinner in an hour of gloom, And let a ghost with all its horrors come; From lips unmoved let solemn accents flow, Solemn his gesture be, his motion slow; Let the waved hand and threatening look impart Truth to the mind and terror to the heart; 30 And, when the form is fading to the view, Let the convicted man cry, ‘this is true!’
used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
which person or people
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
in the company of; together with
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
the feeling aroused by something strange and surprising
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
wontnounUS /woʊnt/
an established custom
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
not correct; not in conformity with fact or truth
From this reading 10 “Warning,” said Richard, “seems the only thing That would a spirit on an errand bring; To turn a guilty mind from wrong to right A ghost might come; at least I think it might.”
but in spite of that
From this reading _LADY BARBARA; OR, THE GHOST._ The Brothers spoke of Ghosts—a favourite theme With those who love to reason or to dream; And they, as greater men were wont to do, Felt strong desire to think the stories true: Stories of spirits freed, who came to prove To spirits bound in flesh that yet they love; To give them notice of the things below, Which we must wonder how they came to know, Or known, would think of coming to relate To creatures who are tried by unknown fate.
