Chapter XIV · Chapter 14

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

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

(Old Testament) in Judeo-Christian mythology; the first man and the husband of Eve and the progenitor of the human race

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

in addition

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

more than enough in size or scope or capacity

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

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

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

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

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

in or to or toward a former location

From this reading And presently, roused by the scratch of his industrious quill, I fell to watching him, his bowed head, the curve of his back as he stooped.

a piece of furniture that provides a place to sleep

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

inflected form of “begin” — take the first step or steps in carrying out an action

From this reading Now presently he paused to read over what he had written and doing so, began to push and pull at his cumbrous wig and finally, lifting it off, laid it on the table.

perception by means of the eyes

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

the -ing form of “be”

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

a relatively permanent inclination to react in a particular way

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

of a stringed instrument; sounded by stroking with a bow

From this reading And presently, roused by the scratch of his industrious quill, I fell to watching him, his bowed head, the curve of his back as he stooped.

emitting or reflecting light readily or in large amounts

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

the part of the face above the eyes

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

a commercial or industrial enterprise and the people who constitute it

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading And presently, roused by the scratch of his industrious quill, I fell to watching him, his bowed head, the curve of his back as he stooped.

an officer holding a rank below a major but above a lieutenant

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

made for or formed by carving (“carven” is archaic or literary)

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

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

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

the protruding part of the lower jaw

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

an outer garment that has sleeves and covers the body from shoulder down; worn outdoors

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

intentionally conceived

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

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

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

plural of “covering” — a natural object that covers or envelops

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

difficult to handle or use especially because of size or weight

From this reading Now presently he paused to read over what he had written and doing so, began to push and pull at his cumbrous wig and finally, lifting it off, laid it on the table.

plural of “curl” — a round shape formed by a series of concentric circles (as formed by leaves or flower petals)

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

the trace of a point whose direction of motion changes

From this reading And presently, roused by the scratch of his industrious quill, I fell to watching him, his bowed head, the curve of his back as he stooped.

separate with or as if with an instrument

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

the act of suspending something (hanging it from above so it moves freely)

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

possessive form of “dog” — a member of the genus Canis (probably descended from the common wolf) that has been domesticated by man since prehistoric times; occurs in many breeds

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

-ing form of “do” — engage in

From this reading Now presently he paused to read over what he had written and doing so, began to push and pull at his cumbrous wig and finally, lifting it off, laid it on the table.

United States actor (born in Ireland); father of Georgiana Emma Barrymore (1827-1862)

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

plural of “ear” — the sense organ for hearing and equilibrium

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

to a high degree or extent; favorably or with much respect

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

the organ of sight

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

cause to fall by or as if by delivering a blow

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

after an unspecified period of time or an especially long delay

From this reading Now presently he paused to read over what he had written and doing so, began to push and pull at his cumbrous wig and finally, lifting it off, laid it on the table.

come upon, as if by accident; meet with

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

preceding all others in time or space or degree

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

the inside lower horizontal surface (as of a room, hallway, tent, or other structure)

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

a person you know well and regard with affection and trust

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

past form of “gleam” — be shiny, as if wet

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

relatively large in size or number or extent; larger than others of its kind

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

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

From this reading Now presently he paused to read over what he had written and doing so, began to push and pull at his cumbrous wig and finally, lifting it off, laid it on the table.

plural of “hanging” — decoration that is hung (as a tapestry) on a wall or over a window

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading And presently, roused by the scratch of his industrious quill, I fell to watching him, his bowed head, the curve of his back as he stooped.

the upper part of the human body or the front part of the body in animals; contains the face and brains

From this reading And presently, roused by the scratch of his industrious quill, I fell to watching him, his bowed head, the curve of his back as he stooped.

occupied or in the control of; often used in combination

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

the male already mentioned, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading And presently, roused by the scratch of his industrious quill, I fell to watching him, his bowed head, the curve of his back as he stooped.

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

From this reading And presently, roused by the scratch of his industrious quill, I fell to watching him, his bowed head, the curve of his back as he stooped.

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

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

in an idle manner

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

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

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

characterized by hard work and perseverance

From this reading And presently, roused by the scratch of his industrious quill, I fell to watching him, his bowed head, the curve of his back as he stooped.

the people or companies engaged in a particular kind of commercial enterprise

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

something that bulges out or is protuberant or projects from its surroundings

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

having or demonstrating ability to recognize or draw fine distinctions

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

set down according to a plan

From this reading Now presently he paused to read over what he had written and doing so, began to push and pull at his cumbrous wig and finally, lifting it off, laid it on the table.

to incline or bend from a vertical position

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

raise from a lower to a higher position

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

-ing form of “lift” — raise from a lower to a higher position

From this reading Now presently he paused to read over what he had written and doing so, began to push and pull at his cumbrous wig and finally, lifting it off, laid it on the table.

prefer or wish to do something

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

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

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

something that is an indulgence rather than a necessity

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

characterized by grandeur

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

the person speaking, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

having or showing great strength or force or intensity

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

belonging to the person speaking

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

used when the speaker is also the object of the action

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

the organ of smell and entrance to the respiratory tract; the prominent part of the face of man or other mammals

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

a mathematical element that when added to another number yields the same number

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

in the historical present; at this point in the narration of a series of past events

From this reading Now presently he paused to read over what he had written and doing so, began to push and pull at his cumbrous wig and finally, lifting it off, laid it on the table.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

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

From this reading Now presently he paused to read over what he had written and doing so, began to push and pull at his cumbrous wig and finally, lifting it off, laid it on the table.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

above and across; more than

From this reading Now presently he paused to read over what he had written and doing so, began to push and pull at his cumbrous wig and finally, lifting it off, laid it on the table.

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

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

past form of “pause” — interrupt temporarily an activity before continuing

From this reading Now presently he paused to read over what he had written and doing so, began to push and pull at his cumbrous wig and finally, lifting it off, laid it on the table.

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

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

a wig for men that was fashionable in the 17th and 18th centuries

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

plural of “point” — a geometric element that has position but no extension

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

perfected or made shiny and smooth

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

strike, usually with the fist

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

in the near future

From this reading And presently, roused by the scratch of his industrious quill, I fell to watching him, his bowed head, the curve of his back as he stooped.

the property of being extremely abundant

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

cause to move by pulling

From this reading Now presently he paused to read over what he had written and doing so, began to push and pull at his cumbrous wig and finally, lifting it off, laid it on the table.

a purple color or pigment

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

move with force

From this reading Now presently he paused to read over what he had written and doing so, began to push and pull at his cumbrous wig and finally, lifting it off, laid it on the table.

pen made from a bird's feather

From this reading And presently, roused by the scratch of his industrious quill, I fell to watching him, his bowed head, the curve of his back as he stooped.

a straight sword with a narrow blade and two edges

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

interpret something that is written or printed

From this reading Now presently he paused to read over what he had written and doing so, began to push and pull at his cumbrous wig and finally, lifting it off, laid it on the table.

firm in purpose or belief; characterized by firmness and determination

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

possessing material wealth

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

past form of “rouse” — become active

From this reading And presently, roused by the scratch of his industrious quill, I fell to watching him, his bowed head, the curve of his back as he stooped.

the seventh and last day of the week; observed as the Sabbath by Jews and some Christians

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

cut with a saw

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

only a very short time before

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

cause friction

From this reading And presently, roused by the scratch of his industrious quill, I fell to watching him, his bowed head, the curve of his back as he stooped.

perceive by sight or have the power to perceive by sight

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

term of address for a man

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

having the back and shoulders rounded; not erect

From this reading And presently, roused by the scratch of his industrious quill, I fell to watching him, his bowed head, the curve of his back as he stooped.

being definitely out of the ordinary and unexpected; slightly odd or even a bit weird

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

an effortful attempt to attain a goal

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

in a studious manner

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

happening without warning or in a short space of time

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

a set of data arranged in rows and columns

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

hung or decorated with tapestry

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

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

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

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

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

in spite of the fact that

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

(used to introduce a logical conclusion) from that fact or reason or as a result

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

the extreme end of something; especially something pointed

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

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

From this reading And presently, roused by the scratch of his industrious quill, I fell to watching him, his bowed head, the curve of his back as he stooped.

a shaky motion

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

made neat and tidy by trimming

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

a silky densely piled fabric with a plain back

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

precisely as stated

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

plural of “wall” — an architectural partition with a height and length greater than its thickness; used to divide or enclose an area or to support another structure

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

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

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

past form of “watch” — look attentively

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

engaged in or accustomed to close observation

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

the act of observing; taking a patient look

From this reading And presently, roused by the scratch of his industrious quill, I fell to watching him, his bowed head, the curve of his back as he stooped.

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

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

used to ask for information about something

From this reading Now presently he paused to read over what he had written and doing so, began to push and pull at his cumbrous wig and finally, lifting it off, laid it on the table.

showing characteristics of age, especially having grey or white hair

From this reading Thus I saw the man was white-haired and that his ears were mighty strange, being cut and trimmed to points like a dog's ears; and beholding the jut of brow and nose and resolute chin, I fell to sudden trembling, and striving to lift myself on the bed, wondered to find this such a business.

which person or people

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

hairpiece covering the head and made of real or synthetic hair

From this reading Now presently he paused to read over what he had written and doing so, began to push and pull at his cumbrous wig and finally, lifting it off, laid it on the table.

in the company of; together with

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

past form of “wonder” — have a wish or desire to know something

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

gather or contract into wrinkles or folds; pucker

From this reading A small, lean man but very magnificent, for his coat of rich purple velvet sat on him with scarce a wrinkle, his great peruke fell in such ample profusion of curls that I could see nought but the tip of his nose as he bent to his writing, and I wondered idly at his so great industry.

the act of creating written works

From this reading HOW I FELL IN WITH MY FRIEND, CAPTAIN SIR ADAM PENFEATHER It was the pommel of the long rapier dangling from the chair-back that first drew and held my eye, for this pommel was extremely bright and polished and gleamed on me like a very keen and watchful eye as I watched, though conscious also of the luxury of panelled walls, of rich floor coverings and tapestried hangings, and the man who sat writing so studiously at the carven table.

set down in writing in any of various ways

From this reading Now presently he paused to read over what he had written and doing so, began to push and pull at his cumbrous wig and finally, lifting it off, laid it on the table.