Every word is available to listen to. Dictionary details are shown only when verified; these are not licensed Oxford entries.
AdeterminerUS /ə/
used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
aboutprepositionUS /əˈbaʊt/
on the subject of; concerning
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
all
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
andeterminerUS /æn/
the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
andconjunctionUS /ənd/
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
areauxiliary verbUS /ɑːr/
the form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
aroundprepositionUS /ərˈaʊnd/
surrounding, or on every side of, something
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
band
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
becoming
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But a becoming modesty had kept Lucy Ware indoors, and Kitty had limited herself to a furtive survey of the scene from behind what was left of Sallie Winship's lace curtains.
beenauxiliary verbUS /bɪn/
the past participle of “be”
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
behindprepositionUS /bɪˈhaɪnd/
at or toward the back of something
From this reading But a becoming modesty had kept Lucy Ware indoors, and Kitty had limited herself to a furtive survey of the scene from behind what was left of Sallie Winship's lace curtains.
belt
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
best
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
big
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
Bill
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
blankets
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
bravery
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
butconjunctionUS /bʌt/
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
calico
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
call
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
camp
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
cartridge
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
catching
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
chaparejos
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
cold
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
Colt's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
couldmodal verbUS /kʊd/
the past of “can”; used for possibility or polite requests
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
country
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
cowboy
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
cowboys
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
curtains
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But a becoming modesty had kept Lucy Ware indoors, and Kitty had limited herself to a furtive survey of the scene from behind what was left of Sallie Winship's lace curtains.
dirt
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
dirty
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
downcast
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
draped
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
dress
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
drop
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
enough
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
evennounUS /even/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
everydeterminerUS /ˈevəri/
all the members of a group, with none left out
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
exuberance
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
eye
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
felt
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
fire
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
foolish
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
forprepositionUS /fɔːr/
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
Four
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
fringed
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
fromprepositionUS /frʌm/
showing where something starts, or who sent it
From this reading But a becoming modesty had kept Lucy Ware indoors, and Kitty had limited herself to a furtive survey of the scene from behind what was left of Sallie Winship's lace curtains.
front
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
furtive
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But a becoming modesty had kept Lucy Ware indoors, and Kitty had limited herself to a furtive survey of the scene from behind what was left of Sallie Winship's lace curtains.
German
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
grin
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
guns
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/
the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
handkerchief
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
hardly
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/
used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
havingauxiliary verbUS /ˈhævɪŋ/
the -ing form of “have”
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
herselfpronounUS /hərˈself/
used when the woman or girl doing the action is also its object
From this reading But a becoming modesty had kept Lucy Ware indoors, and Kitty had limited herself to a furtive survey of the scene from behind what was left of Sallie Winship's lace curtains.
Hidden
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
huge
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
inprepositionUS /ɪn/
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
Indian
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
indoors
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But a becoming modesty had kept Lucy Ware indoors, and Kitty had limited herself to a furtive survey of the scene from behind what was left of Sallie Winship's lace curtains.
intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/
moving to the inside of something
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
itpronounUS /ɪt/
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
itsdeterminerUS /ɪts/
belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
Judge
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
kept
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But a becoming modesty had kept Lucy Ware indoors, and Kitty had limited herself to a furtive survey of the scene from behind what was left of Sallie Winship's lace curtains.
Kitty
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But a becoming modesty had kept Lucy Ware indoors, and Kitty had limited herself to a furtive survey of the scene from behind what was left of Sallie Winship's lace curtains.
lace
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But a becoming modesty had kept Lucy Ware indoors, and Kitty had limited herself to a furtive survey of the scene from behind what was left of Sallie Winship's lace curtains.
lady's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
leather
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
leftnounUS /left/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
Lightfoot
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
like
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
limited
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But a becoming modesty had kept Lucy Ware indoors, and Kitty had limited herself to a furtive survey of the scene from behind what was left of Sallie Winship's lace curtains.
long-shanked
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
looknounUS /look/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
low
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
Lucy
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But a becoming modesty had kept Lucy Ware indoors, and Kitty had limited herself to a furtive survey of the scene from behind what was left of Sallie Winship's lace curtains.
man
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
mesquite
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
modesty
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But a becoming modesty had kept Lucy Ware indoors, and Kitty had limited herself to a furtive survey of the scene from behind what was left of Sallie Winship's lace curtains.
moment
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
napkin
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
natural
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
neck
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
news
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
night
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
norconjunctionUS /nɔːr/
and not; used after a negative to add a second negative
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
ofprepositionUS /ʌv/
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
onprepositionUS /ɑːn/
touching and supported by a surface
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
out
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
outfit
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
parade
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
partnounUS /part/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
passednounUS /passed/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
Peaks
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
pistols
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
pride
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
proper
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
quitenounUS /quite/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
red
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
reserved
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
revolver
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
rode
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
rodeo
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
romped
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
rumor
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
Sallie
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But a becoming modesty had kept Lucy Ware indoors, and Kitty had limited herself to a furtive survey of the scene from behind what was left of Sallie Winship's lace curtains.
say
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
scene
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But a becoming modesty had kept Lucy Ware indoors, and Kitty had limited herself to a furtive survey of the scene from behind what was left of Sallie Winship's lace curtains.
shaps
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
shouldmodal verbUS /ʃʊd/
used to say what is right, expected, or advisable
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
silk
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
slack
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
slung
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
SNOW-SCENE
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
soconjunctionUS /soʊ/
for that reason; with the result that
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
some
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
spirits
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
spurs
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
stage-struck
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
survey
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But a becoming modesty had kept Lucy Ware indoors, and Kitty had limited herself to a furtive survey of the scene from behind what was left of Sallie Winship's lace curtains.
swaggering
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
Texas
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
thedeterminerUS /ðə/
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
theirdeterminerUS /ðer/
belonging to the people or things already mentioned
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
There
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
thingnounUS /thing/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
threatened
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
throughnounUS /ˈthrough/
a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
toparticleUS /tuː/
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
tripping
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
trying
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
underprepositionUS /ˈʌndər/
below or beneath something; less than
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
uprising
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
visit
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
Ware
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But a becoming modesty had kept Lucy Ware indoors, and Kitty had limited herself to a furtive survey of the scene from behind what was left of Sallie Winship's lace curtains.
Ware's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading A SNOW-SCENE There was a big fire out under the mesquite that night and a band of cowboys, in all the bravery of spurs, shaps, and pistols, romped around it in a stage-struck exuberance of spirits.
Water
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The news of Judge Ware's visit had passed through the Four Peaks country like the rumor of an Indian uprising and every man rode into Hidden Water with an eye out for calico, some with a foolish grin, some downcast and reserved, some swaggering in the natural pride of the lady's man.
way
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
wearers
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The night was hardly cold enough to call for fringed leather _chaparejos_, and their guns should have been left in their blankets; nor are long-shanked Texas spurs quite the proper thing about camp, having a dirty way of catching and tripping their wearers; but the _rodeo_ outfit felt that it was on dress parade and was trying its best to look the cowboy part.
whatpronounUS /wʌt/
used to ask for information about something
From this reading But a becoming modesty had kept Lucy Ware indoors, and Kitty had limited herself to a furtive survey of the scene from behind what was left of Sallie Winship's lace curtains.
whopronounUS /huː/
which person or people
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
Winship's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading But a becoming modesty had kept Lucy Ware indoors, and Kitty had limited herself to a furtive survey of the scene from behind what was left of Sallie Winship's lace curtains.
withprepositionUS /wɪð/
in the company of; together with
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
word
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Bill Lightfoot even had a red silk handkerchief draped about his neck, with the slack in front, like a German napkin; and his cartridge belt was slung so low that it threatened every moment to drop his huge Colt's revolver into the dirt--but who could say a word?
