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Miscellanies
Miscellanies

Chapter II · Chapter 2

Chapter 2 of Miscellanies is here in full — 409 sentences across 82 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Cover illustration for Miscellanies
Context Illustration Reading 1/81 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.
My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.
As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.
Then as regards clogs, my suggestion of them seems to have aroused a great deal of terror.
Fashion in her high-heeled boots has screamed, and the dreadful word 'anachronism' has been used.
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AI-generated narration by OpenAI · Slow US English
LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

Miscellanies

Chapter II · Chapter 2

Chapter 2 of Miscellanies is here in full — 409 sentences across 82 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/81 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.
/æz fɔːr jɔːr ˈʌðər ˌkɔːrəˈspɑːndənt ðə fɜːrst ˈprɪnsəpəl ʌv dres ðæt ɔːl ˈɡɑːrmənts ʃʊd biː hʌŋ frʌm ðə ˈʃoʊldərz ənd nɑːt frʌm ðə weɪst siːmz tuː miː tuː biː ˈdʒenərəli əˈpruːvd ʌv ˌɔːlˈðoʊ æn oʊld ˈseɪlər dɪˈklerz ðæt noʊ ˈseɪlərz ɔːr ˈæθliːts ˈevər səˈspend ðer kloʊðz frʌm ðə ˈʃoʊldərz bʌt ˈɔːlweɪz frʌm ðə hɪps/
Line 2
My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.
Line 3
As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.
Line 4
Then as regards clogs, my suggestion of them seems to have aroused a great deal of terror.
/ðen æz rɪˈɡɑːrdz klɑːɡz maɪ səˈdʒestʃən ʌv ðem siːmz tuː hæv ərˈaʊzd ə ɡreɪt diːl ʌv ˈterər/
Line 5
Fashion in her high-heeled boots has screamed, and the dreadful word 'anachronism' has been used.

Learner Dictionary

These definitions explain words found in the current reading and keep every example grounded in its original sentence.

Oxford-style entry order: headword, part of speech, US IPA, concise definition, contextual example, and audio.

anachronism noun US /əˈnækrənɪzəm/

something located at a time when it could not have existed or occurred

From this reading “Fashion in her high-heeled boots has screamed, and the dreadful word 'anachronism' has been used.”

athletes noun US /ˈæθliːts/

plural of “athlete” — a person trained to compete in sports

From this reading “As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.”

clogs noun US /klɑːɡz/

plural of “clog” — footwear usually with wooden soles

From this reading “Then as regards clogs, my suggestion of them seems to have aroused a great deal of terror.”

cruises noun US /ˈkruːzɪz/

plural of “cruise” — an ocean trip taken for pleasure

From this reading “As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.”

Hellenism noun US /ˈhelənɪzəm/

the principles and ideals associated with classical Greek civilization

From this reading “My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.”

hitching verb US /ˈhɪtʃɪŋ/

-ing form of “hitch” — to hook or entangle

From this reading “As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.”

suspend verb US /səˈspend/

hang freely

From this reading “As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.”

torpedoes noun US /tɔːrˈpiːdoʊz/

plural of “torpedo” — a professional killer who uses a gun

From this reading “As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.”

All words in this reading · 149

Every word in these five lines is listed here, and every one of them can be played on its own.

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 My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

aboutprepositionUS /əˈbaʊt/

on the subject of; concerning

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

admitverbUS /ədˈmɪt/

declare to be true or admit the existence or reality or truth of

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

alladjectiveUS /ɔːl/

(quantifier) used with either mass or count nouns to indicate the whole number or amount of or every one of a class

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

althoughconjunctionUS /ˌɔːlˈðoʊ/

in spite of the fact that

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

alwaysadverbUS /ˈɔːlweɪz/

at all times; all the time and on every occasion

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

andeterminerUS /æn/

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

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

anachronismnounUS /əˈnækrənɪzəm/

something located at a time when it could not have existed or occurred

From this reading Fashion in her high-heeled boots has screamed, and the dreadful word 'anachronism' has been used.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

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

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

approvedadjectiveUS /əˈpruːvd/

established by authority; given authoritative approval

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

areauxiliary verbUS /ɑːr/

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

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

arousedadjectiveUS /ərˈaʊzd/

aroused to action

From this reading Then as regards clogs, my suggestion of them seems to have aroused a great deal of terror.

AsconjunctionUS /æz/

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

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

atprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

athletesnounUS /ˈæθliːts/

plural of “athlete” — a person trained to compete in sports

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

attachedadjectiveUS /əˈtætʃt/

being joined in close association

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

awkwardadjectiveUS /ˈɑːkwərd/

causing inconvenience

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

awkwardnessnounUS /ˈɔːkwərdnəs/

unskillfulness resulting from a lack of training

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

badadjectiveUS /bæd/

having undesirable or negative qualities

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

beauxiliary verbUS /biː/

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

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

beenauxiliary verbUS /bɪn/

the past participle of “be”

From this reading Fashion in her high-heeled boots has screamed, and the dreadful word 'anachronism' has been used.

beingauxiliary verbUS /ˈbiːɪŋ/

the -ing form of “be”

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

bestnounUS /best/

the supreme effort one can make

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

bootsnounUS /buːts/

plural of “boot” — footwear that covers the whole foot and lower leg

From this reading Fashion in her high-heeled boots has screamed, and the dreadful word 'anachronism' has been used.

butconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

cannot

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

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

clogsnounUS /klɑːɡz/

plural of “clog” — footwear usually with wooden soles

From this reading Then as regards clogs, my suggestion of them seems to have aroused a great deal of terror.

clothesnounUS /kloʊðz/

clothing in general

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

collegenounUS /ˈkɑːlɪdʒ/

the body of faculty and students of a college

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

comesnounUS /kʌmz/

plural of “come” — the thick white fluid containing spermatozoa that is ejaculated by the male genital tract

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

comingnounUS /ˈkʌmɪŋ/

the act of drawing spatially closer to something

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

consideredadjectiveUS /kənˈsɪdərd/

carefully weighed

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

constantadjectiveUS /ˈkɑːnstənt/

unvarying in nature

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

correspondentnounUS /ˌkɔːrəˈspɑːndənt/

someone who communicates by means of letters

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

costumenounUS /kɑːˈstuːm/

the attire worn in a play or at a fancy dress ball

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

crinolettes

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

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

cruisesnounUS /ˈkruːzɪz/

plural of “cruise” — an ocean trip taken for pleasure

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

customnounUS /ˈkʌstəm/

accepted or habitual practice

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

dealverbUS /diːl/

act on verbally or in some form of artistic expression

From this reading Then as regards clogs, my suggestion of them seems to have aroused a great deal of terror.

declaresverbUS /dɪˈklerz/

third-person singular of “declare” — state emphatically and authoritatively

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

discomfortnounUS /dɪˈskʌmfərt/

the state of being tense and feeling pain

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

dramasnounUS /ˈdrɑːməz/

plural of “drama” — a dramatic work intended for performance by actors on a stage

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

drawersnounUS /drɔːrz/

underpants worn by men

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

dreadfuladjectiveUS /ˈdredfəl/

causing fear or dread or terror

From this reading Fashion in her high-heeled boots has screamed, and the dreadful word 'anachronism' has been used.

dressverbUS /dres/

put on clothes

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

everadverbUS /ˈevər/

at any time

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

everythingpronounUS /ˈevriθɪŋ/

all things; all of a situation

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

extremelyadverbUS /ekˈstriːmli/

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

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

FashionnounUS /ˈfæʃən/

how something is done or how it happens

From this reading Fashion in her high-heeled boots has screamed, and the dreadful word 'anachronism' has been used.

firstadjectiveUS /fɜːrst/

preceding all others in time or space or degree

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

fromprepositionUS /frʌm/

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

garmentsnounUS /ˈɡɑːrmənts/

plural of “garment” — an article of clothing

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

generallyadverbUS /ˈdʒenərəli/

usually; as a rule

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

GothicadjectiveUS /ˈɡɑːθɪk/

characteristic of the style of type commonly used for printing German

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

greatadjectiveUS /ɡreɪt/

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

From this reading Then as regards clogs, my suggestion of them seems to have aroused a great deal of terror.

groundnounUS /ɡraʊnd/

the solid part of the earth's surface

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

habitnounUS /ˈhæbət/

an established custom

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

hasauxiliary verbUS /hæz/

the form of “have” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading Fashion in her high-heeled boots has screamed, and the dreadful word 'anachronism' has been used.

haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading Then as regards clogs, my suggestion of them seems to have aroused a great deal of terror.

HellenismnounUS /ˈhelənɪzəm/

the principles and ideals associated with classical Greek civilization

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

herdeterminerUS /hɜːr/

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

From this reading Fashion in her high-heeled boots has screamed, and the dreadful word 'anachronism' has been used.

high-heeled

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

From this reading Fashion in her high-heeled boots has screamed, and the dreadful word 'anachronism' has been used.

hipsnounUS /hɪps/

plural of “hip” — either side of the body below the waist and above the thigh

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

hitchingverbUS /ˈhɪtʃɪŋ/

-ing form of “hitch” — to hook or entangle

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

homesnounUS /hoʊmz/

plural of “home” — where you live at a particular time

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

hopenounUS /hoʊp/

a specific instance of feeling hopeful

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

howeveradverbUS /ˌhaʊˈevər/

used to add a contrasting statement

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

hungverbUS /hʌŋ/

inflected form of “hang” — be suspended or hanging

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

IpronounUS /aɪ/

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

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

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

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

involveverbUS /ˌɪnˈvɑːlv/

connect closely and often incriminatingly

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/

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

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

itpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

jerseynounUS /ˈdʒɜːrzi/

a Mid-Atlantic state on the Atlantic; one of the original 13 colonies

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

kindadjectiveUS /kaɪnd/

having or showing a tender and considerate and helpful nature; used especially of persons and their behavior

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

littleadjectiveUS /ˈlɪtəl/

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

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

lookedverbUS /lʊkt/

past form of “look” — perceive with attention; direct one's gaze towards

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

lowerverbUS /ˈloʊər/

move something or somebody to a lower position

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

manyadjectiveUS /ˈmeni/

a quantifier that can be used with count nouns and is often preceded by “as” or “too” or “so” or “that”; amounting to a large but indefinite number

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

mepronounUS /miː/

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

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

MydeterminerUS /maɪ/

belonging to the person speaking

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

navynounUS /ˈneɪvi/

an organization of military vessels belonging to a country and available for sea warfare

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

nodeterminerUS /noʊ/

not any; not one

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

notadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

OldadjectiveUS /oʊld/

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

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

onepronounUS /wʌn/

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

otheradjectiveUS /ˈʌðər/

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

ourdeterminerUS /ˈaʊər/

belonging to the speaker and others

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

outadjectiveUS /aʊt/

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

ownverbUS /oʊn/

have ownership or possession of

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

OxfordnounUS /ˈɑːksfərd/

a city in southern England to the northwest of London; site of Oxford University

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

piecenounUS /piːs/

a separate part of a whole

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

pointnounUS /pɔɪnt/

a geometric element that has position but no extension

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

popularadjectiveUS /ˈpɑːpjələr/

regarded with great favor, approval, or affection especially by the general public

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

principlenounUS /ˈprɪnsəpəl/

a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

protestsnounUS /ˈproʊtests/

plural of “protest” — a formal and solemn declaration of objection

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

recollectionnounUS /ˌrekəˈlekʃən/

the ability to recall past occurrences

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

reformnounUS /rəˈfɔːrm/

a change for the better as a result of correcting abuses

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

regardsnounUS /rɪˈɡɑːrdz/

plural of “regard” — (usually preceded by “in”) a detail or point

From this reading Then as regards clogs, my suggestion of them seems to have aroused a great deal of terror.

rivernounUS /ˈrɪvər/

a large natural stream of water (larger than a creek)

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

rowers

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

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

runnersnounUS /ˈrʌnərz/

plural of “runner” — someone who imports or exports without paying duties

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

runningadjectiveUS /ˈrʌnɪŋ/

(of fluids) moving or issuing in a stream

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

SailornounUS /ˈseɪlər/

any member of a ship's crew

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

sailor'snounUS /ˈseɪlərz/

possessive form of “sailor” — any member of a ship's crew

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

sailorsnounUS /ˈseɪlərz/

plural of “sailor” — any member of a ship's crew

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

screamedverbUS /skriːmd/

past form of “scream” — utter a sudden loud cry

From this reading Fashion in her high-heeled boots has screamed, and the dreadful word 'anachronism' has been used.

seemsverbUS /siːmz/

third-person singular of “seem” — give a certain impression or have a certain outward aspect

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

shortadjectiveUS /ʃɔːrt/

primarily temporal sense; indicating or being or seeming to be limited in duration

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

shouldmodal verbUS /ʃʊd/

used to say what is right, expected, or advisable

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

shouldersnounUS /ˈʃoʊldərz/

plural of “shoulder” — the part of the body between the neck and the upper arm

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

someadjectiveUS /sʌm/

(quantifier) used with either mass nouns or plural count nouns to indicate an unspecified number or quantity

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

spitenounUS /spaɪt/

feeling a need to see others suffer

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

suggestionnounUS /səˈdʒestʃən/

an idea that is suggested

From this reading Then as regards clogs, my suggestion of them seems to have aroused a great deal of terror.

suspendverbUS /səˈspend/

hang freely

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

terrornounUS /ˈterər/

an overwhelming feeling of fear and anxiety

From this reading Then as regards clogs, my suggestion of them seems to have aroused a great deal of terror.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

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

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

theirdeterminerUS /ðer/

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

thempronounUS /ðem/

the people or things already mentioned, as the object

From this reading Then as regards clogs, my suggestion of them seems to have aroused a great deal of terror.

ThenadverbUS /ðen/

subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors)

From this reading Then as regards clogs, my suggestion of them seems to have aroused a great deal of terror.

thinkverbUS /θɪŋk/

judge or regard; look upon; judge

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

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

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

thosedeterminerUS /ðoʊz/

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

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

tightadjectiveUS /taɪt/

closely constrained or constricted or constricting

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

toparticleUS /tuː/

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

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

top-hats

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

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

torpedoesnounUS /tɔːrˈpiːdoʊz/

plural of “torpedo” — a professional killer who uses a gun

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

townnounUS /taʊn/

an urban area with a fixed boundary that is smaller than a city

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

transpontine

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

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

trueadjectiveUS /truː/

consistent with fact or reality; not false

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

trustnounUS /trʌst/

something (as property) held by one party (the trustee) for the benefit of another (the beneficiary)

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

turnedadjectiveUS /tɜːrnd/

moved around an axis or center

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

twonounUS /tuː/

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

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

upadjectiveUS /ʌp/

being or moving higher in position or greater in some value; being above a former position or level

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

usedadjectiveUS /juːzd/

employed in accomplishing something

From this reading Fashion in her high-heeled boots has screamed, and the dreadful word 'anachronism' has been used.

waistnounUS /weɪst/

the narrowing of the body between the ribs and hips

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

wepronounUS /wiː/

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

wholeadjectiveUS /hoʊl/

including all components without exception; being one unit or constituting the full amount or extent or duration; complete

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

willmodal verbUS /wɪl/

used to talk about the future, or about willingness

From this reading As for sailors it is true, I admit, and the bad custom seems to involve that constant 'hitching up' of the lower garments which, however popular in transpontine dramas, cannot, I think, but be considered an extremely awkward habit; and as all awkwardness comes from discomfort of some kind, I trust that this point in our sailor's dress will be looked to in the coming reform of our navy, for, in spite of all protests, I hope we are about to reform everything, from torpedoes to top-hats, and from crinolettes to cruises.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

wordnounUS /wɜːrd/

a unit of language that native speakers can identify

From this reading Fashion in her high-heeled boots has screamed, and the dreadful word 'anachronism' has been used.

woreverbUS /wɔːr/

inflected form of “wear” — be dressed in

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

wovenadjectiveUS /ˈwoʊvən/

made or constructed by interlacing threads or strips of material or other elements into a whole

From this reading My own recollection of the river and running ground at Oxford--those two homes of Hellenism in our little Gothic town--is that the best runners and rowers (and my own college turned out many) wore always a tight jersey, with short drawers attached to it, the whole costume being woven in one piece.

yourdeterminerUS /jɔːr/

belonging to the person or people being spoken to

From this reading As for your other correspondent, the first principle of dress that all garments should be hung from the shoulders and not from the waist seems to me to be generally approved of, although an 'Old Sailor' declares that no sailors or athletes ever suspend their clothes from the shoulders, but always from the hips.

Chapter 2 of Miscellanies by Oscar Wilde holds 409 sentences, grouped into 82 reading sections of at most 5 sentences. The text is the source edition, unabridged, and the chapter records which sentences cover which part of the work so that nothing is dropped. Every word can be tapped for its pronunciation and dictionary entry.

What does chapter 2 of Miscellanies contain?

Chapter 2 holds 409 sentences of Miscellanies, unabridged, divided into 82 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 2 of Miscellanies by Oscar Wilde exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 409 sentences, grouped into 82 sections of at most 5 sentences so that a reader can take the chapter in steady, finishable pieces. The chapter also stores a coverage record mapping every one of its sentences to a part of the work, which is how the edition demonstrates that no line was dropped.

How do I study chapter 2 of Miscellanies?

Work through the 82 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 82 sections in this chapter is short enough to read once, hear once, and then re-read with the vocabulary in view. Tapping a word plays it alone and opens its dictionary entry with IPA, part of speech and meaning, so the reader is never forced to guess a pronunciation from spelling. Working section by section keeps a long chapter from becoming an undifferentiated wall of text, which is the usual reason a reader abandons a work of this period.

Can chapter 2 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 2 can be played aloud in United States English.

Audio covers the whole chapter: any sentence can be played, and any single word within it can be played on its own. The voice uses United States English. For a work of this period that matters, because spelling is an unreliable guide to pronunciation for vocabulary that has fallen out of daily use, and a learner who guesses wrong tends to keep the error. Hearing the word in its own sentence, and then alone, settles it.

Questions about reading Miscellanies

Common questions about reading Miscellanies by Oscar Wilde on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of Miscellanies?

Yes. All 3257 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #14062 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of Miscellanies is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #14062, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does Miscellanies take to read?

About 271 minutes of reading across 652 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read Miscellanies section by section

How to work through Miscellanies section by section, using the audio and the tap-to-define vocabulary.

  1. Open a chapter

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  2. Read one section

    Each section holds 5 sentences; read it once through.

  3. Listen and tap

    Play the section aloud, then tap any unfamiliar word for its entry.

Vocabulary met early in Miscellanies

Words and structures a reader meets early in Miscellanies, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Since
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Miscellanies; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
These
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Miscellanies; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Volumes
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Miscellanies; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Place
A word that appears in the opening chapter of Miscellanies; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.