Every word is available to listen to. Dictionary details are shown only when verified; these are not licensed Oxford entries.
adeterminerUS /ə/
used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading One morning he came to the desk set apart for him in the law office, and found a letter lying there for him.
aboutprepositionUS /əˈbaʊt/
on the subject of; concerning
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
accustomed
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
address
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading “Son:” it said, “your board is paid at the address given below, up to the day you are twenty-one.
alley
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
andconjunctionUS /ənd/
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
apart
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading One morning he came to the desk set apart for him in the law office, and found a letter lying there for him.
areauxiliary verbUS /ɑːr/
the form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun
From this reading “Son:” it said, “your board is paid at the address given below, up to the day you are twenty-one.
atprepositionUS /æt/
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
atmosphere
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
back
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
bare
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
beenauxiliary verbUS /bɪn/
the past participle of “be”
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
beginningnounUS /ˈbeginning/
a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
belowprepositionUS /bɪˈloʊ/
at or to a lower level than something
From this reading “Son:” it said, “your board is paid at the address given below, up to the day you are twenty-one.
benefit
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading If you don’t get the benefit it will go to waste.
betweenprepositionUS /bɪˈtwiːn/
in the space, time, or range separating two things
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
board
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading “Son:” it said, “your board is paid at the address given below, up to the day you are twenty-one.
boarding
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
booksnounUS /bʊks/
Bound written or printed works.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
briefly
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
butconjunctionUS /bʌt/
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
came
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading One morning he came to the desk set apart for him in the law office, and found a letter lying there for him.
chairs
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
contrast
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
day
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
desk
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading One morning he came to the desk set apart for him in the law office, and found a letter lying there for him.
don't
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading If you don’t get the benefit it will go to waste.
down
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
earnest
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
Endicott
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
environment
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
evening
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
firm
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
floor
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
floors
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
forprepositionUS /fɔːr/
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading One morning he came to the desk set apart for him in the law office, and found a letter lying there for him.
foundnounUS /found/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading One morning he came to the desk set apart for him in the law office, and found a letter lying there for him.
four
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
fourthnounUS /fourth/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
get
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
given
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading “Son:” it said, “your board is paid at the address given below, up to the day you are twenty-one.
go
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading If you don’t get the benefit it will go to waste.
gold
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/
the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
HepronounUS /hiː/
a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
himpronounUS /hɪm/
the male already mentioned, as the object of a verb or preposition
From this reading One morning he came to the desk set apart for him in the law office, and found a letter lying there for him.
hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
house
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
IfconjunctionUS /ɪf/
on condition that; in the event that
From this reading If you don’t get the benefit it will go to waste.
inprepositionUS /ɪn/
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/
the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading “Son:” it said, “your board is paid at the address given below, up to the day you are twenty-one.
itpronounUS /ɪt/
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading “Son:” it said, “your board is paid at the address given below, up to the day you are twenty-one.
law
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
leather
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
leather-covered
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
letter
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading One morning he came to the desk set apart for him in the law office, and found a letter lying there for him.
lined
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
littlenounUS /little/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
lodgings
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
low-voiced
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
lying
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading One morning he came to the desk set apart for him in the law office, and found a letter lying there for him.
made
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
men
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
Michael
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
months
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
morningnounUS /morning/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading One morning he came to the desk set apart for him in the law office, and found a letter lying there for him.
moved
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
Mr
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
neighborhood
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
new
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
nothingpronounUS /ˈnʌθɪŋ/
not one thing; not anything
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
occupying
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
ofprepositionUS /ʌv/
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
office
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading One morning he came to the desk set apart for him in the law office, and found a letter lying there for him.
OnepronounUS /wʌn/
used to mean any person in general, including the speaker
From this reading One morning he came to the desk set apart for him in the law office, and found a letter lying there for him.
only
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/
used to join alternatives or possibilities
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
oriental
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
original
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
paid
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading “Son:” it said, “your board is paid at the address given below, up to the day you are twenty-one.
polished
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
quiet-stepping
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
room
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
rugs
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
said
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
seen
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
set
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading One morning he came to the desk set apart for him in the law office, and found a letter lying there for him.
Son
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading “Son:” it said, “your board is paid at the address given below, up to the day you are twenty-one.
spent
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
spot
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
stillnounUS /still/
an important story-specific word used in this passage
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
thedeterminerUS /ðə/
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
theirdeterminerUS /ðer/
belonging to the people or things already mentioned
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
there
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading One morning he came to the desk set apart for him in the law office, and found a letter lying there for him.
three
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
times
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading He was still occupying the fourth floor back at his original boarding house, and had seen Mr. Endicott briefly three or four times, but nothing had been said about his lodgings.
toparticleUS /tuː/
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
tolerable
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
twenty-one
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading “Son:” it said, “your board is paid at the address given below, up to the day you are twenty-one.
up
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading “Son:” it said, “your board is paid at the address given below, up to the day you are twenty-one.
violentnounUS /ˈviolent/
a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
walls
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
wastenounUS /weɪst/
an empty, uncultivated area of land
From this reading If you don’t get the benefit it will go to waste.
whereconjunctionUS /wer/
in or at the place that
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
white
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
whopronounUS /huː/
which person or people
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
willmodal verbUS /wɪl/
used to talk about the future, or about willingness
From this reading If you don’t get the benefit it will go to waste.
withprepositionUS /wɪð/
in the company of; together with
From this reading Michael had been three months with the new law firm and was beginning to get accustomed to the violent contrast between the day spent in the atmosphere of low-voiced, quiet-stepping, earnest men who moved about in their environment of polished floors, oriental rugs, leather chairs and walls lined with leather-covered law books; and the evening down in the alley where his bare, little, white and gold room made the only tolerable spot in the neighborhood.
youpronounUS /juː/
the person or people being spoken to
From this reading “Son:” it said, “your board is paid at the address given below, up to the day you are twenty-one.
yourdeterminerUS /jɔːr/
belonging to the person or people being spoken to
From this reading “Son:” it said, “your board is paid at the address given below, up to the day you are twenty-one.
