Chapter IV

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

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

on the subject of; concerning

From this reading France was too busy with more serious matters to bother about the freebooters in the far-off Caribbean.

plural of “activity” — any specific behavior

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

a person or thing that is a resource that helps make something easier or possible to do

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

at all times; all the time and on every occasion

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

surrounded by; in the middle of a group

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

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

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

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

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

one more of the same kind, or a different one

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

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

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

a group of islands in the West Indies

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

one or some or every or all without specification

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

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

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

plural of “attack” — (military) an offensive against an enemy (using weapons)

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

inflected form of “become” — enter or assume a certain state or condition

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

take the trouble to do something; concern oneself

From this reading France was too busy with more serious matters to bother about the freebooters in the far-off Caribbean.

plural of “buccaneer” — someone who robs at sea or plunders the land from the sea without having a commission from any sovereign nation

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

actively or fully engaged or occupied

From this reading France was too busy with more serious matters to bother about the freebooters in the far-off Caribbean.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

an arm of the Atlantic Ocean between North and South America; the origin of the Gulf stream

From this reading France was too busy with more serious matters to bother about the freebooters in the far-off Caribbean.

examine so as to determine accuracy, quality, or condition

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

a person who is in charge

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

your overall circumstances or condition in life (including everything that happens to you)

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

move toward, travel toward something or somebody or approach something or somebody

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

without variation or change, in every case

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

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

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

the past of “can”; used for possibility or polite requests

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

plural of “country” — a politically organized body of people under a single government

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

a politically organized body of people under a single government

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

the skilled practice of a practical occupation

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

wanted intensely

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

subject to disagreement and debate

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

plural of “don” — a Spanish gentleman or nobleman

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

owed and payable immediately or on demand

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

an opposing military force

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

a division of the United Kingdom

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

a native or inhabitant of Europe

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

at any time

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

free from favoritism or self-interest or bias or deception; conforming with established standards or rules

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

very far away in space or time

From this reading France was too busy with more serious matters to bother about the freebooters in the far-off Caribbean.

come upon, as if by accident; meet with

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

be agreeable or acceptable to

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

emblem usually consisting of a rectangular piece of cloth of distinctive design

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

moving swiftly

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

highly offensive; arousing aversion or disgust

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

a republic in western Europe; the largest country wholly in Europe

From this reading France was too busy with more serious matters to bother about the freebooters in the far-off Caribbean.

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

From this reading France was too busy with more serious matters to bother about the freebooters in the far-off Caribbean.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

the act of grasping

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

the solid part of the earth's surface

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

plural of “harbor” — a sheltered port where ships can take on or discharge cargo

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

not easy; requiring great physical or mental effort to accomplish or comprehend or endure

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

past form of “harm” — cause or do harm to

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

treated with dislike or contempt

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

belonging to a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

occurring among members of a family usually by heredity

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

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

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

plural of “inhabitant” — a person who inhabits a particular place

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

come between so as to be hindrance or obstacle

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

plural of “island” — a land mass (smaller than a continent) that is surrounded by water

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

plural of “isle” — a small island

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

full of or showing high-spirited merriment

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

(especially of promises or contracts) not violated or disregarded

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

cause to continue in a certain state, position, or activity; e.g., “keep clean”

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

plural of “matter” — a vaguely specified concern

From this reading France was too busy with more serious matters to bother about the freebooters in the far-off Caribbean.

thing or person that acts to produce a particular effect or achieve an end

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

the force of workers available

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

and nothing more

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

used to say something is possible but not certain

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

a particular point in time

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

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

From this reading France was too busy with more serious matters to bother about the freebooters in the far-off Caribbean.

having no personal preference

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

not ever; at no time in the past or future

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

not any; not one

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

the state prevailing during the absence of war

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

not disturbed by strife or turmoil or war

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

beyond or deviating from the usual or expected

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

plural of “pirate” — someone who uses another person's words or ideas as if they were his own

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

plural of “power” — possession of controlling influence

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

put into a certain place or abstract location

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

to a degree (not used with a negative)

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

on the contrary

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

being or occurring in fact or actuality; having verified existence; not illusory

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

a rational motive for a belief or action

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

a safe place

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

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

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

the state of being certain that adverse effects will not be caused by some agent under defined conditions

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

cut with a saw

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

plural of “sea” — a division of an ocean or a large body of salt water partially enclosed by land

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

perceive by sight or have the power to perceive by sight

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

try to get or reach

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

concerned with work or important matters rather than play or trivialities

From this reading France was too busy with more serious matters to bother about the freebooters in the far-off Caribbean.

a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

used to say what is right, expected, or advisable

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

a parliamentary monarchy in southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula; a former colonial power

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

plural of “spaniard” — a native or inhabitant of Spain

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

take the first step or steps in carrying out an action

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

plural of “sufferer” — a person suffering from an illness

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

power to dominate or defeat

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

having or feeling no doubt or uncertainty; confident and assured

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

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

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

the plural of “this”: the people or things near, or just mentioned

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

plural of “throat” — the passage to the stomach and lungs; in the front part of the neck below the chin and above the collarbone

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

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

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

to a degree exceeding normal or proper limits

From this reading France was too busy with more serious matters to bother about the freebooters in the far-off Caribbean.

the commercial exchange (buying and selling on domestic or international markets) of goods and services

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

a person who has never had sex

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

in essence or effect but not in fact

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

the waging of armed conflict against an enemy

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

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

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

United States actress and singer (1896-1977)

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

accept gladly

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

in or at the place that

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

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

From this reading THE BUCCANEERS IN THE VIRGIN ISLES It was due to peculiar circumstances that the Virgin Islands and their harbors became neutral ground—or, rather, neutral waters—wherein the corsairs could be sure of safety, and where they never harmed the inhabitants or such peaceful craft as might come to trade or to seek refuge.

during the time that

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

which person or people

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.

disposed or inclined toward

From this reading England, as ever, desired the supremacy of the seas, and, hard put to it to maintain her grip in the Antilles, she was quite willing that the Dons should be kept in check by fair means or foul.

in the company of; together with

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

not having, not using, or not accompanied by

From this reading With the European countries constantly at one another’s throats, the men without a country, flying no flag but the Jolly Roger, could always find safety among these disputed isles, and were always sure of a welcome.

but in spite of that

From this reading The hated Spaniards were the chief sufferers from the pirates’ attacks, and while they might virtually be at peace with Spain, yet the other powers saw no real reason to interfere with the pirates’ activities merely to aid an hereditary enemy who might at any moment see fit to start another war.