used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
aboutprepositionUS /əˈbaʊt/
on the subject of; concerning
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
acclivitynoun
an upward slope or grade (as in a road)
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
accompanyingadjectiveUS /əˈkʌmpəniɪŋ/
occurring with or following as a consequence
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
accordedverbUS /əˈkɔːrdɪd/
past form of “accord” — go together
From this reading In a few moments, maidens, hastily aroused from slumber, grouped around her with a respect which would certainly not have been accorded had her birth and creed been known.
afterprepositionUS /ˈæftər/
later than; following
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
Almamen
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
(of actions or states) slightly short of or not quite accomplished; all but
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
alongprepositionUS /əˈlɔːŋ/
following the length of something from one end toward the other
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
a suite of rooms usually on one floor of an apartment house
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
arcadesnounUS /ɑːrˈkeɪdz/
plural of “arcade” — a covered passageway with shops and stalls on either side
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
surrounding, or on every side of, something
From this reading In a few moments, maidens, hastily aroused from slumber, grouped around her with a respect which would certainly not have been accorded had her birth and creed been known.
arousedadjectiveUS /ərˈaʊzd/
aroused to action
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
arrasnoun
a wall hanging of heavy handwoven fabric often with pictorial designs
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
ascendingadjectiveUS /əˈsendɪŋ/
moving or going or growing upward
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
barsnounUS /bɑːrz/
gymnastic apparatus consisting of two parallel wooden rods supported on uprights
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
battlementsnounUS /ˈbætəlmənts/
plural of “battlement” — a rampart built around the top of a castle with regular gaps for firing arrows or guns
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
beardedadjectiveUS /ˈbɪrdəd/
having hair on the cheeks and chin
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
beenauxiliary verbUS /bɪn/
the past participle of “be”
From this reading In a few moments, maidens, hastily aroused from slumber, grouped around her with a respect which would certainly not have been accorded had her birth and creed been known.
earlier than; in front of
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
the time when something begins (especially life)
From this reading In a few moments, maidens, hastily aroused from slumber, grouped around her with a respect which would certainly not have been accorded had her birth and creed been known.
body-guard
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
cause to be bored
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
of surpassing excellence
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
buttressesnounUS /ˈbʌtrəsəz/
plural of “buttress” — a support usually of stone or brick; supports the wall of a building
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
temporary living quarters specially built by the army for soldiers
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
a large and stately mansion
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
definitely or positively (“sure” is sometimes used informally for “surely”)
From this reading In a few moments, maidens, hastily aroused from slumber, grouped around her with a respect which would certainly not have been accorded had her birth and creed been known.
challengeverbUS /ˈtʃæləndʒ/
take exception to
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
chambersnounUS /ˈtʃeɪmbərz/
English architect (1723-1796)
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
one who is the object of choice; who is given preference
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
chroniclesnounUS /ˈkrɑːnɪkəlz/
plural of “chronicle” — a record or narrative description of past events
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
clanks
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
serenely self-possessed and free from agitation especially in times of stress
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
conductedverbUS /kənˈdʌktəd/
past form of “conduct” — direct the course of; manage or control
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
courtsnounUS /kɔːrts/
plural of “court” — an assembly (including one or more judges) to conduct judicial business
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
creednounUS /kriːd/
any system of principles or beliefs
From this reading In a few moments, maidens, hastily aroused from slumber, grouped around her with a respect which would certainly not have been accorded had her birth and creed been known.
time for Earth to make a complete rotation on its axis
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
defileverb
place under suspicion or cast doubt upon
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
effectedadjectiveUS /ɪˈfektɪd/
settled securely and unconditionally
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
the act of escaping physically
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
the feeling of lively and cheerful joy
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
decreasing in amount or degree
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
fantasticadjectiveUS /fænˈtæstɪk/
ludicrously odd
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
fatiguenounUS /fəˈtiːɡ/
temporary loss of strength and energy resulting from hard physical or mental work
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
a quantifier that can be used with count nouns and is often preceded by “a”; a small but indefinite number
From this reading In a few moments, maidens, hastily aroused from slumber, grouped around her with a respect which would certainly not have been accorded had her birth and creed been known.
FlemishnounUS /ˈflemɪʃ/
an ethnic group speaking Flemish and living in northern and western Belgium
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
fortifiedadjectiveUS /ˈfɔːrtəfaɪd/
secured with bastions or fortifications
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
fortressnounUS /ˈfɔːrtrəs/
a fortified defensive structure
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
showing where something starts, or who sent it
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
United States computer entrepreneur whose software company made him the youngest multi-billionaire in the history of the United States (born in 1955)
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
glarenounUS /ɡler/
a light within the field of vision that is brighter than the brightness to which the eyes are adapted
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
depressingly dark
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
an alert and refreshed state
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
GothicadjectiveUS /ˈɡɑːθɪk/
characteristic of the style of type commonly used for printing German
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
gratingnounUS /ˈɡreɪtɪŋ/
a barrier that has parallel or crossed bars blocking a passage but admitting air
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
groupedadjectiveUS /ɡruːpt/
arranged into groups
From this reading In a few moments, maidens, hastily aroused from slumber, grouped around her with a respect which would certainly not have been accorded had her birth and creed been known.
hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/
the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
hallsnounUS /hɔːlz/
plural of “hall” — an interior passage or corridor onto which rooms open
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
haltedverbUS /ˈhɔːltəd/
past form of “halt” — cause to stop
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
in a hurried or hasty manner
From this reading In a few moments, maidens, hastily aroused from slumber, grouped around her with a respect which would certainly not have been accorded had her birth and creed been known.
haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/
used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses
From this reading In a few moments, maidens, hastily aroused from slumber, grouped around her with a respect which would certainly not have been accorded had her birth and creed been known.
belonging to a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
greater than normal in degree or intensity or amount
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
hoarseadjectiveUS /hɔːrs/
deep and harsh sounding as if from shouting or illness or emotion
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
where you live at a particular time
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
hoofsnounUS /hʊfs/
plural of “hoof” — the foot of an ungulate mammal
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
a period of time equal to 1/24th of a day
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
how
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
unusually great in size or amount or degree or especially extent or scope
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
inflected form of “hang” — be suspended or hanging
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
impartingnounUS /ˌɪmˈpɑːrtɪŋ/
the transmission of information
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
InquisitionnounUS /ˌɪn.kwɪˈzɪʃ.ən/
A period of prolonged and intensive questioning or investigation.
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
INTERNALadjectiveUS /ˌɪnˈtɜːrnəl/
happening or arising or located within some limits or especially surface
From this reading OUTWARD TO THE INTERNAL.
Isabel's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
showing extreme cupidity; painfully desirous of another's advantages
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
having or showing a tender and considerate and helpful nature; used especially of persons and their behavior
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
apprehended with certainty
From this reading In a few moments, maidens, hastily aroused from slumber, grouped around her with a respect which would certainly not have been accorded had her birth and creed been known.
Leila
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
litternounUS /ˈlɪtər/
the offspring at one birth of a multiparous mammal
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
loomsnounUS /luːmz/
plural of “loom” — a textile machine for weaving yarn into a textile
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
maidensnounUS /ˈmeɪdənz/
plural of “maiden” — an unmarried girl (especially a virgin)
From this reading In a few moments, maidens, hastily aroused from slumber, grouped around her with a respect which would certainly not have been accorded had her birth and creed been known.
memorableadjectiveUS /ˈmemərəbəl/
worth remembering
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
a particular point in time
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
plural of “moment” — a particular point in time
From this reading In a few moments, maidens, hastily aroused from slumber, grouped around her with a respect which would certainly not have been accorded had her birth and creed been known.
moonlitadjectiveUS /ˈmuːnlɪt/
lighted by moonlight
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
MoorishnounUS /ˈmʊrɪʃ/
a style of architecture common in Spain from the 13th to 16th centuries; characterized by horseshoe-shaped arches
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
mountainousadjectiveUS /ˈmaʊntənəs/
having hills and crags
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
of an obscure nature
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative
From this reading In a few moments, maidens, hastily aroused from slumber, grouped around her with a respect which would certainly not have been accorded had her birth and creed been known.
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
(used especially of persons) having lived for a relatively long time or attained a specific age
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
OUTWARDadjectiveUS /ˈaʊtwərd/
relating to physical reality rather than with thoughts or the mind
From this reading OUTWARD TO THE INTERNAL.
have ownership or possession of
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
something determined in relation to something that includes it
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
pavementnounUS /ˈpeɪvmənt/
the paved surface of a thoroughfare
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
the act of having and controlling property
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
on the contrary
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
renownedadjectiveUS /rɪˈnaʊnd/
widely known and esteemed
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
(usually preceded by “in”) a detail or point
From this reading In a few moments, maidens, hastily aroused from slumber, grouped around her with a respect which would certainly not have been accorded had her birth and creed been known.
having or caused by an irregular surface
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
ruddier
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
seneschalnoun
the chief steward or butler of a great household
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
plural of “sens” — street names for marijuana
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
sentrynounUS /ˈsentri/
a person employed to keep watch for some anticipated event
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
a natural and periodic state of rest during which consciousness of the world is suspended
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
slumbernounUS /ˈslʌmbər/
a natural and periodic state of rest during which consciousness of the world is suspended
From this reading In a few moments, maidens, hastily aroused from slumber, grouped around her with a respect which would certainly not have been accorded had her birth and creed been known.
plural of “soldier” — an enlisted man or woman who serves in an army
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
(quantifier) used with either mass nouns or plural count nouns to indicate an unspecified number or quantity
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
SpaniardsnounUS /ˈspænjərdz/
plural of “spaniard” — a native or inhabitant of Spain
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
steepadjectiveUS /stiːp/
having a sharp inclination
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
steepedverbUS /stiːpt/
past form of “steep” — devote (oneself) fully to
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
sternadjectiveUS /stɜːrn/
of a stern or strict bearing or demeanor; forbidding in aspect
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
streamingadjectiveUS /ˈstriːmɪŋ/
exuding a bodily fluid in profuse amounts
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
with strength or in a strong manner
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
a portable shelter (usually of canvas stretched over supporting poles and fastened to the ground with ropes and pegs)
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
used to introduce the second part of a comparison
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading OUTWARD TO THE INTERNAL.
from one end or side of something to the other
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading OUTWARD TO THE INTERNAL.
torchesnounUS /ˈtɔːrtʃɪz/
plural of “torch” — a light usually carried in the hand; consists of some flammable substance
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
torpornounUS /ˈtɔːrpər/
a state of motor and mental inactivity with a partial suspension of sensibility
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
create by training and teaching
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
traversingverbUS /trəˈvɜːrsɪŋ/
-ing form of “traverse” — travel across or pass over
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
unlikeadjectiveUS /ənˈlaɪk/
marked by dissimilarity
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
uponprepositionUS /əˈpɑːn/
a formal word for “on”
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
unusually great in size or amount or degree or especially extent or scope
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
precisely as stated
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
visages
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The hoarse challenge of the sentry, the grating of jealous bars, the clanks of hoofs upon the rough pavement of the courts, and the streaming glare of torches--falling upon stern and bearded visages, and imparting a ruddier glow to the moonlit buttresses and battlements of the fortress--aroused Leila from a kind of torpor rather than sleep, in which the fatigue and excitement of the day had steeped her senses.
the waging of armed conflict against an enemy
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
windingadjectiveUS /ˈwaɪndɪŋ/
marked by repeated turns and bends
From this reading It was about the very hour, almost the very moment, in which Almamen effected his mysterious escape from the tent of the Inquisition, that the train accompanying the litter which bore Leila, and which was composed of some chosen soldiers of Isabel’s own body-guard, after traversing the camp, winding along that part of the mountainous defile which was in the possession of the Spaniards, and ascending a high and steep acclivity, halted before the gates of a strongly fortified castle renowned in the chronicles of that memorable war.
in the company of; together with
From this reading An old seneschal conducted her, through vast and gloomy halls (how unlike the brilliant chambers and fantastic arcades of her Moorish home) to a huge Gothic apartment, hung with the arras of Flemish looms.
used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past
From this reading In a few moments, maidens, hastily aroused from slumber, grouped around her with a respect which would certainly not have been accorded had her birth and creed been known.
