Chapter XXII · Chapter 22

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

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

(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 Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

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

From this reading Old Judge Pancoast, yielding to the general demand, gave an oyster roast--his enormous kitchen being the place of all others for such a function.

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

From this reading With the closing in of the autumn and the coming of the first winter cold, the denizens of Kennedy Square gave themselves over to the season's entertainments.

plural of “apron” — a garment of cloth or leather or plastic that is tied about the waist and worn to protect your clothing

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

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

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

the season when the leaves fall from the trees

From this reading With the closing in of the autumn and the coming of the first winter cold, the denizens of Kennedy Square gave themselves over to the season's entertainments.

round object that is hit or thrown or kicked in games

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

past form of “bank” — tip laterally

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

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

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

a piece of furniture that provides a place to sleep

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

the -ing form of “be”

From this reading Old Judge Pancoast, yielding to the general demand, gave an oyster roast--his enormous kitchen being the place of all others for such a function.

above average in size or number or quantity or magnitude or extent

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

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

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

a bowling game played on a level lawn with biased wooden balls that are rolled at a jack

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

inflected form of “come” — move toward, travel toward something or somebody or approach something or somebody

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

plural of “cellar” — the lowermost portion of a structure partly or wholly below ground level; often used for storage

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

weedy annual native to Europe but widely distributed as a weed especially in wheat

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

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

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

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

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

the act of closing something

From this reading With the closing in of the autumn and the coming of the first winter cold, the denizens of Kennedy Square gave themselves over to the season's entertainments.

plural of “coal” — fossil fuel consisting of carbonized vegetable matter deposited in the Carboniferous period

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

having a low or inadequate temperature or feeling a sensation of coldness or having been made cold by e.g. ice or refrigeration

From this reading With the closing in of the autumn and the coming of the first winter cold, the denizens of Kennedy Square gave themselves over to the season's entertainments.

made comfortable or more comfortable in a time of distress

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

the act of drawing spatially closer to something

From this reading With the closing in of the autumn and the coming of the first winter cold, the denizens of Kennedy Square gave themselves over to the season's entertainments.

remaining in force or being carried on without letup

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

accepted or habitual practice

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

extremely pleasing to the sense of taste

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

an urgent or peremptory request

From this reading Old Judge Pancoast, yielding to the general demand, gave an oyster roast--his enormous kitchen being the place of all others for such a function.

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

From this reading With the closing in of the autumn and the coming of the first winter cold, the denizens of Kennedy Square gave themselves over to the season's entertainments.

(used of persons) standing above others in character or attainment or reputation

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

make void or empty of contents

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

extraordinarily large in size or extent or amount or power or degree

From this reading Old Judge Pancoast, yielding to the general demand, gave an oyster roast--his enormous kitchen being the place of all others for such a function.

plural of “entertainment” — an activity that is diverting and that holds the attention

From this reading With the closing in of the autumn and the coming of the first winter cold, the denizens of Kennedy Square gave themselves over to the season's entertainments.

preceding all others in time or space or degree

From this reading With the closing in of the autumn and the coming of the first winter cold, the denizens of Kennedy Square gave themselves over to the season's entertainments.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

activities that are enjoyable or amusing

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

(mathematics) a mathematical relation such that each element of a given set (the domain of the function) is associated with an element of another set (the range of the function)

From this reading Old Judge Pancoast, yielding to the general demand, gave an oyster roast--his enormous kitchen being the place of all others for such a function.

inflected form of “give” — cause to have, in the abstract sense or physical sense

From this reading With the closing in of the autumn and the coming of the first winter cold, the denizens of Kennedy Square gave themselves over to the season's entertainments.

applying to all or most members of a category or group

From this reading Old Judge Pancoast, yielding to the general demand, gave an oyster roast--his enormous kitchen being the place of all others for such a function.

plural of “girl” — a young female

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

an open recess in a wall at the base of a chimney where a fire can be built

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

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

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

valuable tough heavy hardwood from various hickory trees

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

superlative of “high” — greater than normal in degree or intensity or amount

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned

From this reading Old Judge Pancoast, yielding to the general demand, gave an oyster roast--his enormous kitchen being the place of all others for such a function.

a tangible symbol signifying approval or distinction

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

plural of “host” — a person who invites guests to a social event (such as a party in his or her own home) and who is responsible for them while they are there

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

used of physical heat; having a high or higher than desirable temperature or giving off heat or feeling or causing a sensation of heat or burning

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

a period of time assigned for work

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

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

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

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

From this reading With the closing in of the autumn and the coming of the first winter cold, the denizens of Kennedy Square gave themselves over to the season's entertainments.

past form of “inaugurate” — commence officially

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

plural of “invitation” — a request (spoken or written) to participate or be present or take part in something

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

past form of “issue” — prepare and issue for public distribution or sale

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

plural of “jacket” — a short coat

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

determine the result of (a competition)

From this reading Old Judge Pancoast, yielding to the general demand, gave an oyster roast--his enormous kitchen being the place of all others for such a function.

and nothing more

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

35th President of the United States; established the Peace Corps; assassinated in Dallas (1917-1963)

From this reading With the closing in of the autumn and the coming of the first winter cold, the denizens of Kennedy Square gave themselves over to the season's entertainments.

a room equipped for preparing meals

From this reading Old Judge Pancoast, yielding to the general demand, gave an oyster roast--his enormous kitchen being the place of all others for such a function.

set down according to a plan

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

plural of “liquid” — a substance that is liquid at room temperature and pressure

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

primarily temporal sense; being or indicating a relatively great or greater than average duration or passage of time or a duration as specified

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

perceive with attention; direct one's gaze towards

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

of greater importance or stature or rank

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

the force of workers available

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

a native or inhabitant of Mexico

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

the time period between dawn and noon

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

a form of address for a married woman

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

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

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

an event that occurs at a critical time

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading With the closing in of the autumn and the coming of the first winter cold, the denizens of Kennedy Square gave themselves over to the season's entertainments.

from a particular thing or place or position (“forth” is obsolete)

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

plural of “officer” — any person in the armed services who holds a position of authority or command

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

(used especially of persons) having lived for a relatively long time or attained a specific age

From this reading Old Judge Pancoast, yielding to the general demand, gave an oyster roast--his enormous kitchen being the place of all others for such a function.

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

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

plural of “one” — the smallest whole number or a numeral representing this number

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

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

From this reading Old Judge Pancoast, yielding to the general demand, gave an oyster roast--his enormous kitchen being the place of all others for such a function.

above and across; more than

From this reading With the closing in of the autumn and the coming of the first winter cold, the denizens of Kennedy Square gave themselves over to the season's entertainments.

marine mollusks having a rough irregular shell; found on the sea bed mostly in coastal waters

From this reading Old Judge Pancoast, yielding to the general demand, gave an oyster roast--his enormous kitchen being the place of all others for such a function.

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

From this reading Old Judge Pancoast, yielding to the general demand, gave an oyster roast--his enormous kitchen being the place of all others for such a function.

plural of “person” — a human being

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

a point located with respect to surface features of some region

From this reading Old Judge Pancoast, yielding to the general demand, gave an oyster roast--his enormous kitchen being the place of all others for such a function.

plural of “plate” — (baseball) base consisting of a rubber slab where the batter stands; it must be touched by a base runner in order to score

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

plural of “player” — a person who participates in or is skilled at some game

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

an essential and distinguishing attribute of something or someone

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

cook with dry heat, usually in an oven

From this reading Old Judge Pancoast, yielding to the general demand, gave an oyster roast--his enormous kitchen being the place of all others for such a function.

worn away as by water or ice or wind

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

possessive form of “season” — a period of the year marked by special events or activities in some field

From this reading With the closing in of the autumn and the coming of the first winter cold, the denizens of Kennedy Square gave themselves over to the season's entertainments.

similar things placed in order or happening one after another

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

an individual quantity of food or drink taken as part of a meal

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

(used with count nouns) of an indefinite number more than 2 or 3 but not many

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

plural of “shell” — ammunition consisting of a cylindrical metal casing containing an explosive charge and a projectile; fired from a large gun

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

hot enough to burn with or as if with a hissing sound

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

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

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

plural of “solid” — matter that is solid at room temperature and pressure

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

make square

From this reading With the closing in of the autumn and the coming of the first winter cold, the denizens of Kennedy Square gave themselves over to the season's entertainments.

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

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

past form of “store” — keep or lay aside for future use

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

plural of “table” — a set of data arranged in rows and columns

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

any of various edible North American web-footed turtles living in fresh or brackish water

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

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

From this reading With the closing in of the autumn and the coming of the first winter cold, the denizens of Kennedy Square gave themselves over to the season's entertainments.

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

used when the people doing the action are also its object

From this reading With the closing in of the autumn and the coming of the first winter cold, the denizens of Kennedy Square gave themselves over to the season's entertainments.

from that time on

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

the plural of “that”: the people or things further away, or already known

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

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

From this reading With the closing in of the autumn and the coming of the first winter cold, the denizens of Kennedy Square gave themselves over to the season's entertainments.

acceptable to the taste or mind

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

plural of “tournament” — a sporting competition in which contestants play a series of games to decide the winner

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

large gallinaceous bird with fan-shaped tail; widely domesticated for food

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

the cardinal number that is the sum of one and one or a numeral representing this number

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

having no precedent; novel

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

up to a particular time

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

occurring or encountered or experienced or observed frequently or in accordance with regular practice or procedure

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

plural of “waiter” — a person whose occupation is to serve at table (as in a restaurant)

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

the waging of armed conflict against an enemy

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

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

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

(used informally) very small

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

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

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

a Caucasian

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

the quality or state of the achromatic color of greatest lightness (bearing the least resemblance to black)

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

which person or people

From this reading Mrs. Cheston, as was her usual custom, issued invitations for a ball--this one in honor of the officers who had distinguished themselves in the Mexican War.

marked by extreme lack of restraint or control

From this reading Major Clayton, Bowdoin, the Murdochs, Stirlings, and Howards--all persons of the highest quality--inaugurated a series of chess tournaments, the several players and those who came to look on to be thereafter comforted with such toothsome solids as wild turkey, terrapin, and olio, and such delectable liquids as were stored in the cellars of their hosts.

the coldest season of the year; in the northern hemisphere it extends from the winter solstice to the vernal equinox

From this reading With the closing in of the autumn and the coming of the first winter cold, the denizens of Kennedy Square gave themselves over to the season's entertainments.

in the company of; together with

From this reading With the closing in of the autumn and the coming of the first winter cold, the denizens of Kennedy Square gave themselves over to the season's entertainments.

made or consisting of (entirely or in part) or employing wood

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.

inclined to yield to argument or influence or control

From this reading Old Judge Pancoast, yielding to the general demand, gave an oyster roast--his enormous kitchen being the place of all others for such a function.

(used of living things especially persons) in an early period of life or development or growth

From this reading On this occasion two long wooden tables were scoured to an unprecedented whiteness--the young girls in white aprons and the young men in white jackets serving as waiters--and laid with wooden plates, and two big wooden bowls--one for the hot, sizzling shells just off their bed of hickory coals banked on the kitchen hearth, and the other for the empty ones--the fun continuing until the wee sma' hours of the morning.