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.
(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 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.
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.
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.
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.
an unofficial association of people or groups
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.
according with custom or propriety
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.
beltnounUS /belt/
endless loop of flexible material between two rotating shafts or pulleys
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?
the supreme effort one can make
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.
above average in size or number or quantity or magnitude or extent
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.
a statute in draft before it becomes law
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?
blanketsnounUS /ˈblæŋkəts/
plural of “blanket” — bedding that keeps a person warm in bed
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.
braverynounUS /ˈbreɪvəri/
a quality of spirit that enables you to face danger or pain without showing fear
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.
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.
calicoadjectiveUS /ˈkæləkoʊ/
made of calico or resembling calico in being patterned
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.
assign a specified (usually proper) proper name to
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.
temporary living quarters specially built by the army for soldiers
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.
cartridgenounUS /ˈkɑːrtrədʒ/
ammunition consisting of a cylindrical casing containing an explosive charge and a bullet; fired from a rifle or handgun
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?
catchingnounUS /ˈkætʃɪŋ/
(baseball) playing the position of catcher on a baseball team
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.
having a low or inadequate temperature or feeling a sensation of coldness or having been made cold by e.g. ice or refrigeration
From this reading The 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'snounUS /koʊlts/
possessive form of “colt” — a young male horse under the age of four
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?
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?
a politically organized body of people under a single government
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.
cowboynounUS /ˈkaʊbɔɪ/
a hired hand who tends cattle and performs other duties on horseback
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.
cowboysnounUS /ˈkaʊbɔɪz/
plural of “cowboy” — a hired hand who tends cattle and performs other duties on horseback
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.
curtainsnounUS /ˈkɜːrtənz/
plural of “curtain” — hanging cloth used as a blind (especially for a window)
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.
dirtnounUS /dɜːrt/
the part of the earth's surface consisting of humus and disintegrated rock
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?
dirtyadjectiveUS /ˈdɜːrti/
soiled or likely to soil with dirt or grime
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.
downcastadjectiveUS /ˈdaʊnkæst/
directed downward
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.
drapedadjectiveUS /dreɪpt/
covered with or as if with clothes or a wrap or cloak
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?
put on clothes
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.
let fall to the ground
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?
an adequate quantity; a quantity that is large enough to achieve a purpose
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.
divisible by two
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?
exuberancenounUS /ɪɡˈzuːbərəns/
joyful enthusiasm
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.
the organ of sight
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.
mat together and make felt-like
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.
start firing a weapon
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.
devoid of good sense or judgment
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.
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.
the cardinal number that is the sum of three and one
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.
fringedadjective
surrounded as with a border or fringe; sometimes used in combination
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.
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.
the side that is forward or prominent
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?
furtiveadjectiveUS /ˈfɜːrtɪv/
marked by quiet and caution and secrecy; taking pains to avoid being observed
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.
a person of German nationality
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?
grinnounUS /ɡrɪn/
a facial expression characterized by turning up the corners of the mouth; usually shows pleasure or amusement
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.
plural of “gun” — a weapon that discharges a missile at high velocity (especially from a metal tube or barrel)
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?
a square piece of cloth used for wiping the eyes or nose or as a costume accessory
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?
only a very short time 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.
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.
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.
not accessible to view
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.
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?
unusually great in size or amount or degree or especially extent or scope
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?
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.
of or relating to or characteristic of India or the East Indies or their peoples or languages or cultures
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.
indoorsadverbUS /ˈɪndɔːrz/
within a building
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?
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.
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.
determine the result of (a competition)
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.
(especially of promises or contracts) not violated or disregarded
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.
KittynounUS /ˈkɪti/
the combined stakes of the betters
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.
laceverbUS /leɪs/
spin, wind, or twist together
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'snounUS /ˈleɪdiz/
possessive form of “lady” — a polite name for any woman
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.
leathernounUS /ˈleðər/
an animal skin made smooth and flexible by removing the hair and then tanning
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.
location near or direction toward the left side; i.e. the side to the north when a person or object faces east
From this reading 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?
prefer or wish to do 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?
limitedadjectiveUS /ˈlɪmətəd/
small in range or scope
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-shankedadjective
having long legs
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.
perceive with attention; direct one's gaze towards
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.
less than normal in degree or intensity or amount
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?
incomplete skeleton of female found in eastern Ethiopia in 1974
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.
an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)
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.
mesquitenounUS /ˈmeskiːt/
any of several small spiny trees or shrubs of the genus Prosopis having small flowers in axillary cylindrical spikes followed by large pods rich in sugar
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.
modestynounUS /ˈmɑːdəsti/
freedom from vanity or conceit
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.
a particular point in time
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?
napkinnounUS /ˈnæpkɪn/
a small piece of table linen that is used to wipe the mouth and to cover the lap in order to protect clothing
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?
in accordance with nature; relating to or concerning nature
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.
the part of an organism (human or animal) that connects the head to the rest of the body
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?
information about recent and important events
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.
the time after sunset and before sunrise while it is dark outside
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.
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.
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.
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.
not allowed to continue to bat or run
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.
outfitnounUS /ˈaʊtfɪt/
any cohesive unit such as a military company
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.
paradenounUS /pərˈeɪd/
a ceremonial procession including people marching
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.
something determined in relation to something that includes it
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.
past form of “pass” — go across or through
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.
PeaksnounUS /piːks/
plural of “peak” — the most extreme possible amount or value
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.
pistolsnounUS /ˈpɪstəlz/
plural of “pistol” — a firearm that is held and fired with one hand
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.
a feeling of self-respect and personal worth
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.
marked by suitability or rightness or appropriateness
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.
to a degree (not used with a 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.
red color or pigment; the chromatic color resembling the hue of blood
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?
reservedadjectiveUS /rɪˈzɜːrvd/
set aside for the use of a particular person or party
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.
revolvernounUS /rɪˈvɑːlvər/
a pistol with a revolving cylinder (usually having six chambers for bullets)
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?
inflected form of “ride” — sit and travel on the back of animal, usually while controlling its motions
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.
rodeonounUS /ˈroʊdioʊ/
an exhibition of cowboy skills
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.
rumornounUS /ˈruːmər/
gossip (usually a mixture of truth and untruth) passed around by word of mouth
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.
express in words
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?
the place where some action occurs
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.
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.
a fabric made from the fine threads produced by certain insect larvae
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?
slackadjectiveUS /slæk/
not tense or taut
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?
slungverbUS /slʌŋ/
inflected form of “sling” — hurl as if with a sling
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.
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?
(quantifier) used with either mass nouns or plural count nouns to indicate an unspecified number or quantity
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.
an alcoholic beverage that is distilled rather than fermented
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.
spursnounUS /spɜːrz/
plural of “spur” — a verbalization that encourages you to attempt 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.
stage-struckadjective
infatuated with or enthralled by the theater especially the desire to act
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.
surveynounUS /sərˈveɪ/
a detailed critical inspection
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.
swaggeringadjectiveUS /ˈswæɡərɪŋ/
having or showing arrogant superiority to and disdain of those one views as unworthy
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.
TexasnounUS /ˈteksəs/
the second largest state; located in southwestern United States on the Gulf of Mexico
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.
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.
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.
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.
in or at that place or location
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.
a special situation
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.
(of flora or fauna) likely in the near future to become endangered
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?
from one end or side of something to the other
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.
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.
trippingadjectiveUS /ˈtrɪpɪŋ/
characterized by a buoyant rhythm
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.
hard to endure
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.
uprisingnounUS /əˈpraɪzɪŋ/
organized opposition to authority; a conflict in which one faction tries to wrest control from another
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.
go to see a place, as for entertainment
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.
WarenounUS /wer/
articles of the same kind or material; usually used in combination: “silverware”, “software”
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.
binary compound that occurs at room temperature as a clear colorless odorless tasteless liquid; freezes into ice below 0 degrees centigrade and boils above 100 degrees centigrade; widely used as a solvent
From this reading 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.
how something is done or how it happens
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.
wearersnounUS /ˈwerərz/
plural of “wearer” — a person who wears or carries or displays something as a body covering or accessory
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.
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.
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.
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?
a unit of language that native speakers can identify
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?
