Chapter XXII · Chapter 22

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

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

on the subject of; concerning

From this reading The medium was a thin, nervous-looking youth of about nineteen; but, as Mr. Dempster assured Mr. Hogarth, was in every way to be trusted, as his character was irreproachable, and of great sincerity and simplicity.

inconsistent with reason or logic or common sense

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

an administrative unit of government

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

(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 A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

at all times; all the time and on every occasion

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

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

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

plural of “appearance” — outward or visible aspect of a person or thing

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

subject to appointment

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

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

From this reading The medium was a thin, nervous-looking youth of about nineteen; but, as Mr. Dempster assured Mr. Hogarth, was in every way to be trusted, as his character was irreproachable, and of great sincerity and simplicity.

marked by assurance; exhibiting confidence

From this reading The medium was a thin, nervous-looking youth of about nineteen; but, as Mr. Dempster assured Mr. Hogarth, was in every way to be trusted, as his character was irreproachable, and of great sincerity and simplicity.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

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

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

the past participle of “be”

From this reading Many of them had known severe bereavement--many of them had been tossed on the dark sea of doubt and despondency--and the brief messages communicated by raps, or by the voice of the medium, gave them consolation and hope.

the -ing form of “be”

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

state of sorrow over the death or departure of a loved one

From this reading Many of them had known severe bereavement--many of them had been tossed on the dark sea of doubt and despondency--and the brief messages communicated by raps, or by the voice of the medium, gave them consolation and hope.

highly favored or fortunate (as e.g. by divine grace)

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

of short duration or distance

From this reading Many of them had known severe bereavement--many of them had been tossed on the dark sea of doubt and despondency--and the brief messages communicated by raps, or by the voice of the medium, gave them consolation and hope.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

a degree on the centigrade scale of temperature

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

past form of “cause” — give rise to; cause to happen or occur, not always intentionally

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

plural of “chair” — a seat for one person, with a support for the back

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

an imaginary person represented in a work of fiction (play or film or story)

From this reading The medium was a thin, nervous-looking youth of about nineteen; but, as Mr. Dempster assured Mr. Hogarth, was in every way to be trusted, as his character was irreproachable, and of great sincerity and simplicity.

past form of “communicate” — transmit information

From this reading Many of them had known severe bereavement--many of them had been tossed on the dark sea of doubt and despondency--and the brief messages communicated by raps, or by the voice of the medium, gave them consolation and hope.

the discipline that studies the principles of transmiting information and the methods by which it is delivered (as print or radio or television etc.)

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

the comfort you feel when consoled in times of disappointment

From this reading Many of them had known severe bereavement--many of them had been tossed on the dark sea of doubt and despondency--and the brief messages communicated by raps, or by the voice of the medium, gave them consolation and hope.

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

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

absence of light or illumination

From this reading Many of them had known severe bereavement--many of them had been tossed on the dark sea of doubt and despondency--and the brief messages communicated by raps, or by the voice of the medium, gave them consolation and hope.

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

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

feeling downcast and disheartened and hopeless

From this reading Many of them had known severe bereavement--many of them had been tossed on the dark sea of doubt and despondency--and the brief messages communicated by raps, or by the voice of the medium, gave them consolation and hope.

the past form of “do”, used in questions and negatives

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

the state of being unsure of something

From this reading Many of them had known severe bereavement--many of them had been tossed on the dark sea of doubt and despondency--and the brief messages communicated by raps, or by the voice of the medium, gave them consolation and hope.

a positive feeling of wanting to push ahead with something

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

characterized by a firm and humorless belief in the validity of your opinions

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

posing no difficulty; requiring little effort

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

the latter part of the day (the period of decreasing daylight from late afternoon until nightfall)

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

all the members of a group, with none left out

From this reading The medium was a thin, nervous-looking youth of about nineteen; but, as Mr. Dempster assured Mr. Hogarth, was in every way to be trusted, as his character was irreproachable, and of great sincerity and simplicity.

a statement that makes something comprehensible by describing the relevant structure or operation or circumstances etc.

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

beyond what is ordinary or usual; highly unusual or exceptional or remarkable

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

plural of “feel” — an intuitive awareness

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

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

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

mat together and make felt-like

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

preceding all others in time or space or degree

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

dismiss from the mind; stop remembering

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

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

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

plural of “friend” — a person you know well and regard with affection and trust

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

brought together in one place

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

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

From this reading Many of them had known severe bereavement--many of them had been tossed on the dark sea of doubt and despondency--and the brief messages communicated by raps, or by the voice of the medium, gave them consolation and hope.

cause to have, in the abstract sense or physical sense

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

having desirable or positive qualities especially those suitable for a thing specified

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

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

From this reading The medium was a thin, nervous-looking youth of about nineteen; but, as Mr. Dempster assured Mr. Hogarth, was in every way to be trusted, as his character was irreproachable, and of great sincerity and simplicity.

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

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

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

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

perceive (sound) via the auditory sense

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

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

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

English artist noted for a series of engravings that satirized the affectations of his time (1697-1764)

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

a specific instance of feeling hopeful

From this reading Many of them had known severe bereavement--many of them had been tossed on the dark sea of doubt and despondency--and the brief messages communicated by raps, or by the voice of the medium, gave them consolation and hope.

a period of time equal to 1/24th of a day

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

a dwelling that serves as living quarters for one or more families

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

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

From this reading The medium was a thin, nervous-looking youth of about nineteen; but, as Mr. Dempster assured Mr. Hogarth, was in every way to be trusted, as his character was irreproachable, and of great sincerity and simplicity.

not disposed or willing to believe; unbelieving

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

caused by infection or capable of causing infection

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

free of guilt; not subject to blame

From this reading The medium was a thin, nervous-looking youth of about nineteen; but, as Mr. Dempster assured Mr. Hogarth, was in every way to be trusted, as his character was irreproachable, and of great sincerity and simplicity.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

apprehended with certainty

From this reading Many of them had known severe bereavement--many of them had been tossed on the dark sea of doubt and despondency--and the brief messages communicated by raps, or by the voice of the medium, gave them consolation and hope.

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

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

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 Many of them had known severe bereavement--many of them had been tossed on the dark sea of doubt and despondency--and the brief messages communicated by raps, or by the voice of the medium, gave them consolation and hope.

a means or instrumentality for storing or communicating information

From this reading The medium was a thin, nervous-looking youth of about nineteen; but, as Mr. Dempster assured Mr. Hogarth, was in every way to be trusted, as his character was irreproachable, and of great sincerity and simplicity.

plural of “message” — a communication (usually brief) that is written or spoken or signaled

From this reading Many of them had known severe bereavement--many of them had been tossed on the dark sea of doubt and despondency--and the brief messages communicated by raps, or by the voice of the medium, gave them consolation and hope.

used to say something is possible but not certain

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

plural of “movement” — a change of position that does not entail a change of location

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

a form of address for a man

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

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

From this reading The medium was a thin, nervous-looking youth of about nineteen; but, as Mr. Dempster assured Mr. Hogarth, was in every way to be trusted, as his character was irreproachable, and of great sincerity and simplicity.

the cardinal number that is the sum of eighteen and one

From this reading The medium was a thin, nervous-looking youth of about nineteen; but, as Mr. Dempster assured Mr. Hogarth, was in every way to be trusted, as his character was irreproachable, and of great sincerity and simplicity.

not any; not one

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

not one, and not any

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

the property possessed by a sum or total or indefinite quantity of units or individuals

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading Many of them had known severe bereavement--many of them had been tossed on the dark sea of doubt and despondency--and the brief messages communicated by raps, or by the voice of the medium, gave them consolation and hope.

used of mouth or eyes

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading Many of them had known severe bereavement--many of them had been tossed on the dark sea of doubt and despondency--and the brief messages communicated by raps, or by the voice of the medium, gave them consolation and hope.

an organization to gain political power

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

inflected form of “permit” — consent to, give permission

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

the act of communicating with a deity (especially as a petition or in adoration or contrition or thanksgiving)

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

give an exhibition of to an interested audience

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

(law) the institution of a sequence of steps by which legal judgments are invoked

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

make a promise or commitment

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

plural of “rap” — a reproach for some lapse or misdeed

From this reading Many of them had known severe bereavement--many of them had been tossed on the dark sea of doubt and despondency--and the brief messages communicated by raps, or by the voice of the medium, gave them consolation and hope.

giving satisfaction

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

a division of an ocean or a large body of salt water partially enclosed by land

From this reading Many of them had known severe bereavement--many of them had been tossed on the dark sea of doubt and despondency--and the brief messages communicated by raps, or by the voice of the medium, gave them consolation and hope.

a meeting of spiritualists

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

intensely or extremely bad or unpleasant in degree or quality

From this reading Many of them had known severe bereavement--many of them had been tossed on the dark sea of doubt and despondency--and the brief messages communicated by raps, or by the voice of the medium, gave them consolation and hope.

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

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

used to say what is right, expected, or advisable

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

the quality of being simple or uncompounded

From this reading The medium was a thin, nervous-looking youth of about nineteen; but, as Mr. Dempster assured Mr. Hogarth, was in every way to be trusted, as his character was irreproachable, and of great sincerity and simplicity.

an earnest and sincere feeling

From this reading The medium was a thin, nervous-looking youth of about nineteen; but, as Mr. Dempster assured Mr. Hogarth, was in every way to be trusted, as his character was irreproachable, and of great sincerity and simplicity.

plural of “sofa” — an upholstered seat for more than one person

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

a thing, without saying which

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

plural of “soul” — the immaterial part of a person; the actuating cause of an individual life

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

an alcoholic beverage that is distilled rather than fermented

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

concerned with sacred matters or religion or the church

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

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

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

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

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

the people or things already mentioned, as the object

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

in or at that place or location

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

the plural of “this”: the people or things near, or just mentioned

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

Having little thickness or extent.

From this reading The medium was a thin, nervous-looking youth of about nineteen; but, as Mr. Dempster assured Mr. Hogarth, was in every way to be trusted, as his character was irreproachable, and of great sincerity and simplicity.

any movable possession (especially articles of clothing)

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

in spite of the fact that

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

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

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

in contact with each other or in proximity

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

past form of “toss” — throw or toss with a light motion

From this reading Many of them had known severe bereavement--many of them had been tossed on the dark sea of doubt and despondency--and the brief messages communicated by raps, or by the voice of the medium, gave them consolation and hope.

(of persons) worthy of trust or confidence

From this reading The medium was a thin, nervous-looking youth of about nineteen; but, as Mr. Dempster assured Mr. Hogarth, was in every way to be trusted, as his character was irreproachable, and of great sincerity and simplicity.

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

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

lacking dignity

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

precisely as stated

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

the distinctive quality or pitch or condition of a person's speech

From this reading Many of them had known severe bereavement--many of them had been tossed on the dark sea of doubt and despondency--and the brief messages communicated by raps, or by the voice of the medium, gave them consolation and hope.

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

From this reading The medium was a thin, nervous-looking youth of about nineteen; but, as Mr. Dempster assured Mr. Hogarth, was in every way to be trusted, as his character was irreproachable, and of great sincerity and simplicity.

how something is done or how it happens

From this reading The medium was a thin, nervous-looking youth of about nineteen; but, as Mr. Dempster assured Mr. Hogarth, was in every way to be trusted, as his character was irreproachable, and of great sincerity and simplicity.

inflected form of “go” — change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

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

From this reading A number of his friends and fellow-converts were there, and the proceedings of the evening were opened by a short and earnest prayer that none but good spirits should be permitted to be present, and that all the communications they might be permitted to hear might be blessed to the souls of all of them.

which person or people

From this reading Francis was very incredulous as to the appearances being caused by spiritual agency, and though he could give no satisfactory explanation of the extraordinary movements of tables, easy chairs, sofas, &c., he felt that these things were very undignified and absurd, as every unbeliever always feels at first; but the eagerness of the large party who were gathered together had something infectious in it.

someone who sees an event and reports what happened

From this reading A Seance Francis Hogarth did not forget his promise to Mr. Dempster, and went to his house at the hour appointed, to be witness of the seance.

a young person (especially a young man or boy)

From this reading The medium was a thin, nervous-looking youth of about nineteen; but, as Mr. Dempster assured Mr. Hogarth, was in every way to be trusted, as his character was irreproachable, and of great sincerity and simplicity.