used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
aboutprepositionUS /əˈbaʊt/
on the subject of; concerning
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
aboveprepositionUS /əˈbʌv/
higher than, or over, something
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
touching and pressing; in opposition to
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
at or in the front
From this reading Then ahead loomed the lonely isle of Navassa, with Haiti’s mountain ranges to the east, and through the Windward Passage the Vigilant swept on.
(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 THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
Belonging to the very distant past and no longer in existence or deeply revered.
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
angryadjectiveUS /ˈæŋɡri/
feeling or showing anger
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
AntillesnounUS /ænˈtɪliz/
a group of islands in the West Indies
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
towards the shore from the water
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
assertverbUS /əˈsɜːrt/
state categorically
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
asternadverb
stern foremost or backward
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
barrenadjectiveUS /ˈbærən/
providing no shelter or sustenance
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
the act of overcoming or outdoing
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
boardedverbUS /ˈbɔːrdəd/
past form of “board” — get on board of (trains, buses, ships, aircraft, etc.)
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
plural of “boat” — a small vessel for travel on water
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
cause to be bored
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
a knot with two loops and loose ends; used to tie shoelaces
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
buccaneersnounUS /ˌbʌkəˈniːrz/
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 GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
bulknounUS /bʌlk/
the property resulting from being or relating to the greater in number of two parts; the main part
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
showing who or what does the action
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
CapenounUS /keɪp/
a strip of land projecting into a body of water
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
inflected form of “carry” — move while supporting, either in a vehicle or in one's hands or on one's body
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
chestsnounUS /tʃests/
plural of “chest” — the part of the human torso between the neck and the diaphragm or the corresponding part in other vertebrates
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
one who is the object of choice; who is given preference
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
clambering
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
cliffsnounUS /klɪfs/
plural of “cliff” — a steep high face of rock
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
make overcast or cloudy
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
countlessadjectiveUS /ˈkaʊntləs/
too numerous to be counted
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
CubanounUS /ˈkjuːbə/
a communist state in the Caribbean on the island of Cuba
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
currentsnounUS /ˈkɜːrənts/
plural of “current” — a flow of electricity through a conductor
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
dimlyadverbUS /ˈdɪmli/
in a dim indistinct manner
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
doesauxiliary verbUS /dʌz/
the form of “do” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
DOLLARnounUS /ˈdɑːlər/
the basic monetary unit in many countries; equal to 100 cents
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
dull-green
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
the cardinal compass point that is at 90 degrees
From this reading Then ahead loomed the lonely isle of Navassa, with Haiti’s mountain ranges to the east, and through the Windward Passage the Vigilant swept on.
divisible by two
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
plural of “event” — something that happens at a given place and time
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
fadedadjectiveUS /ˈfeɪdəd/
having lost freshness or brilliance of color
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
faintlyadverbUS /ˈfeɪntli/
to a faint degree or weakly perceived
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
firstadjectiveUS /fɜːrst/
preceding all others in time or space or degree
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
forbiddingadjectiveUS /fərˈbɪdɪŋ/
harshly uninviting or formidable in manner or appearance
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
a fortified military post where troops are stationed
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
fringedadjective
surrounded as with a border or fringe; sometimes used in combination
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
showing where something starts, or who sent it
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
having desirable or positive qualities especially those suitable for a thing specified
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
GRANDDADDYnounUS /ˈɡrændædi/
the father of your father or mother
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
a neutral achromatic color midway between white and black
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
Haiti'snounUS /ˈheɪtiz/
possessive form of “haiti” — a republic in the West Indies on the western part of the island of Hispaniola; achieved independence from France in 1804; the poorest and most illiterate nation in the western hemisphere
From this reading Then ahead loomed the lonely isle of Navassa, with Haiti’s mountain ranges to the east, and through the Windward Passage the Vigilant swept on.
HaitiansnounUS /ˈheɪʃənz/
plural of “haitian” — a native or inhabitant of Haiti
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
harborverbUS /ˈhɑːrbər/
maintain (a theory, thoughts, or feelings)
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/
used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
Havingauxiliary verbUS /ˈhævɪŋ/
the -ing form of “have”
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
heightsnounUS /haɪts/
a high place
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
in or at this place; where the speaker or writer is
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
inflected form of “hide” — prevent from being seen or discovered
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
hoistedverbUS /ˈhɔɪstəd/
past form of “hoist” — raise or haul up with or as if with mechanical help
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
cause to continue in a certain state, position, or activity; e.g., “keep clean”
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
the line at which the sky and Earth appear to meet
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
on condition that; in the event that
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/
moving to the inside of something
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
islenounUS /aɪl/
a small island
From this reading Then ahead loomed the lonely isle of Navassa, with Haiti’s mountain ranges to the east, and through the Windward Passage the Vigilant swept on.
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
jaggedadjectiveUS /ˈdʒæɡəd/
having a sharply uneven surface or outline
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
JamaicanounUS /dʒəˈmeɪkə/
a country on the island of Jamaica; became independent of England in 1962; much poverty; the major industry is tourism
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
landing-place
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
ledgesnounUS /ˈledʒɪz/
plural of “ledge” — a projecting ridge on a mountain or submerged under water
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
United States filmmaker whose works explore the richness of black culture in America (born in 1957)
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
lighthousenounUS /ˈlaɪthaʊs/
a tower with a light that gives warning of shoals to passing ships
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
loftyadjectiveUS /ˈlɔːfti/
of high moral or intellectual value; elevated in nature or style
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
lacking companions or companionship
From this reading Then ahead loomed the lonely isle of Navassa, with Haiti’s mountain ranges to the east, and through the Windward Passage the Vigilant swept on.
loomedverbUS /luːmd/
past form of “loom” — come into view indistinctly, often threateningly
From this reading Then ahead loomed the lonely isle of Navassa, with Haiti’s mountain ranges to the east, and through the Windward Passage the Vigilant swept on.
less than normal in degree or intensity or amount
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
Maestra
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
the property of a body that causes it to have weight in a gravitational field
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
used to say something is possible, or to give permission
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
Maysi
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
having or showing great strength or force or intensity
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
a land mass that projects well above its surroundings; higher than a hill
From this reading Then ahead loomed the lonely isle of Navassa, with Haiti’s mountain ranges to the east, and through the Windward Passage the Vigilant swept on.
plural of “mountain” — a land mass that projects well above its surroundings; higher than a hill
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
used to say something is necessary, or almost certainly true
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
in accordance with nature; relating to or concerning nature
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
Navassa
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Then ahead loomed the lonely isle of Navassa, with Haiti’s mountain ranges to the east, and through the Windward Passage the Vigilant swept on.
not any; not one
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
not divisible by two
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
touching and supported by a surface
From this reading Then ahead loomed the lonely isle of Navassa, with Haiti’s mountain ranges to the east, and through the Windward Passage the Vigilant swept on.
and nothing more
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
belonging to the speaker and others
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
outlinedadjectiveUS /ˈaʊtlaɪnd/
showing clearly the outline or profile or boundary
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
overprepositionUS /ˈoʊvər/
above and across; more than
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
overlookingadjectiveUS /ˈoʊvərlʊkɪŋ/
used of a height or viewpoint
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
owingadjectiveUS /ˈoʊɪŋ/
owed as a debt
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
the act of passing from one state or place to the next
From this reading Then ahead loomed the lonely isle of Navassa, with Haiti’s mountain ranges to the east, and through the Windward Passage the Vigilant swept on.
peaksnounUS /piːks/
plural of “peak” — the most extreme possible amount or value
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
PearlnounUS /pɜːrl/
a smooth lustrous round structure inside the shell of a clam or oyster; much valued as a jewel
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
piratesnounUS /ˈpaɪrəts/
plural of “pirate” — someone who uses another person's words or ideas as if they were his own
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
rangesnounUS /ˈreɪndʒəz/
plural of “range” — an area in which something acts or operates or has power or control: "the range of a supersonic jet"
From this reading Then ahead loomed the lonely isle of Navassa, with Haiti’s mountain ranges to the east, and through the Windward Passage the Vigilant swept on.
advancing or becoming higher or greater in degree or value or status
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
a lump or mass of hard consolidated mineral matter
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
rockyadjectiveUS /ˈrɑːki/
abounding in rocks or stones
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
ruinsnounUS /ˈruːənz/
plural of “ruin” — an irrecoverable state of devastation and destruction
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
inflected form of “sink” — fall or descend to a lower place or level
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
a division of an ocean or a large body of salt water partially enclosed by land
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
inflected form of “see” — perceive by sight or have the power to perceive by sight
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
shelteredadjectiveUS /ˈʃeltərd/
protected from danger or bad weather
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
the land along the edge of a body of water
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
past form of “show” — give an exhibition of to an interested audience
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
SierranounUS /siˈerə/
a range of mountains (usually with jagged peaks and irregular outline)
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
the atmosphere and outer space as viewed from the earth
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
yielding readily to pressure or weight
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
characterized by or preferring solitude
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
somberadjectiveUS /ˈsɑːmbər/
lacking brightness or color; dull
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
plural of “stand” — a support or foundation
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
starboardnounUS /ˈstɑːrbərd/
the right side of a ship or aircraft to someone who is aboard and facing the bow or nose
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
summitnounUS /ˈsʌmət/
the highest level or degree attainable; the highest stage of development
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
surfnounUS /sɜːrf/
waves breaking on the shore
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
possessing sweep
From this reading Then ahead loomed the lonely isle of Navassa, with Haiti’s mountain ranges to the east, and through the Windward Passage the Vigilant swept on.
moving very fast
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
tacklenounUS /ˈtækəl/
the person who plays that position on a football team
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
terracesnounUS /ˈterəsəz/
plural of “terrace” — usually paved outdoor area adjoining a residence
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
belonging to the people or things already mentioned
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
the people or things already mentioned, as the object
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors)
From this reading Then ahead loomed the lonely isle of Navassa, with Haiti’s mountain ranges to the east, and through the Windward Passage the Vigilant swept on.
in or at that place or location
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
a special situation
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
from one end or side of something to the other
From this reading Then ahead loomed the lonely isle of Navassa, with Haiti’s mountain ranges to the east, and through the Windward Passage the Vigilant swept on.
tidesnounUS /taɪdz/
plural of “tide” — the periodic rise and fall of the sea level under the gravitational pull of the moon
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
an instance or single occasion for some event
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
Tortuga
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
toweringadjectiveUS /ˈtaʊərɪŋ/
of imposing height; especially standing out above others
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
accumulated wealth in the form of money or jewels etc.
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
underprepositionUS /ˈʌndər/
below or beneath something; less than
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
being or moving higher in position or greater in some value; being above a former position or level
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
uponprepositionUS /əˈpɑːn/
a formal word for “on”
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
VigilantadjectiveUS /ˈvɪdʒələnt/
carefully observant or attentive; on the lookout for possible danger
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
wave-carved
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
the speaker together with one or more other people
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
the atmospheric conditions that comprise the state of the atmosphere in terms of temperature and wind and clouds and precipitation
From this reading At all events, if the buccaneers hid treasure here they must have chosen their time in good weather, carried their chests ashore in small boats, and hoisted them upon the forbidding rock by tackle, for there is no natural landing-place, and owing to the swift tides and currents there is no sheltered lee under the shore.
westwardadverbUS /ˈwestwərd/
toward the west
From this reading THE GRANDDADDY OF THE DOLLAR Having seen all that was to be seen at Tortuga, even clambering up the rocky heights to the ruins of that first ancient buccaneers’ fort overlooking the harbor, we boarded the Vigilant and bore westward for Jamaica.
whereon
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
WindwardnounUS /ˈwɪndwərd/
the direction from which the wind is coming
From this reading Then ahead loomed the lonely isle of Navassa, with Haiti’s mountain ranges to the east, and through the Windward Passage the Vigilant swept on.
in the company of; together with
From this reading As Tortuga sank low upon the horizon astern and faded into a soft gray cloud, the lofty mountains about Cape Maysi, Cuba, showed dimly above the sea over our starboard bow, with the mighty bulk of the towering Sierra Maestra of the Pearl of the Antilles faintly outlined, somber, forbidding, in countless peaks against the sky.
worthwhileadjectiveUS /ˈwɜːrˈθwaɪl/
sufficiently valuable to justify the investment of time or interest
From this reading Navassa, a barren mass of rock fringed with surf beating upon its jagged ledges and wave-carved cliffs, rising in odd terraces from the angry sea to the dull-green summit whereon stands a solitary lighthouse, may hold pirates’ treasure as the Haitians assert, but if it does, that is the only worthwhile thing upon the isle.
