Chapter III · Chapter 3

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

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

plural of “ability” — the quality of being able to perform; a quality that permits or facilitates achievement or accomplishment

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

(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 long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

the form of “be” used with “I”

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

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

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

one more of the same kind, or a different one

From this reading He read the note, looked at me earnestly, and then I overheard him say to another lieutenant, "The service is going to the devil.

one or some or every or all without specification

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

any thing at all

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

accomplishment of an objective

From this reading On our arrival on board, the coxswain gave a note from the captain to the first lieutenant, who happened to be on deck.

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

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading He read the note, looked at me earnestly, and then I overheard him say to another lieutenant, "The service is going to the devil.

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

From this reading On our arrival on board, the coxswain gave a note from the captain to the first lieutenant, who happened to be on deck.

at or to a lower level than something

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

a state of extreme happiness

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

a committee having supervisory powers

From this reading On our arrival on board, the coxswain gave a note from the captain to the first lieutenant, who happened to be on deck.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

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

From this reading On our arrival on board, the coxswain gave a note from the captain to the first lieutenant, who happened to be on deck.

a possibility due to a favorable combination of circumstances

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

showing self-interest and shrewdness in dealing with others

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

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

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

of or relating to marriage or to the relationship between a wife and husband

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

a politically organized body of people under a single government

From this reading Here's another of the fools of a family made a present of to the country--another cub for me to lick into shape.

the helmsman of a ship's boat or a racing crew

From this reading On our arrival on board, the coxswain gave a note from the captain to the first lieutenant, who happened to be on deck.

an awkward and inexperienced youth

From this reading Here's another of the fools of a family made a present of to the country--another cub for me to lick into shape.

any of various platforms built into a vessel

From this reading On our arrival on board, the coxswain gave a note from the captain to the first lieutenant, who happened to be on deck.

(Judeo-Christian and Islamic religions) chief spirit of evil and adversary of God; tempter of mankind; master of Hell

From this reading He read the note, looked at me earnestly, and then I overheard him say to another lieutenant, "The service is going to the devil.

in a serious manner

From this reading He read the note, looked at me earnestly, and then I overheard him say to another lieutenant, "The service is going to the devil.

the activities of educating or instructing; activities that impart knowledge or skill

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

an adequate quantity; a quantity that is large enough to achieve a purpose

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

the state or fact of existing

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

plural of “family” — a social unit living together

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

a social unit living together

From this reading Here's another of the fools of a family made a present of to the country--another cub for me to lick into shape.

a male parent (also used as a term of address to your father)

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

undergo an emotional sensation or be in a particular state of mind

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

preceding all others in time or space or degree

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

plural of “fool” — a person who lacks good judgment

From this reading Here's another of the fools of a family made a present of to the country--another cub for me to lick into shape.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading On our arrival on board, the coxswain gave a note from the captain to the first lieutenant, who happened to be on deck.

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

From this reading On our arrival on board, the coxswain gave a note from the captain to the first lieutenant, who happened to be on deck.

the act of departing

From this reading He read the note, looked at me earnestly, and then I overheard him say to another lieutenant, "The service is going to the devil.

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

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

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

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

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

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

past form of “happen” — come to pass

From this reading On our arrival on board, the coxswain gave a note from the captain to the first lieutenant, who happened to be on deck.

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

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

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

From this reading He read the note, looked at me earnestly, and then I overheard him say to another lieutenant, "The service is going to the devil.

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

From this reading Here's another of the fools of a family made a present of to the country--another cub for me to lick into shape.

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

From this reading He read the note, looked at me earnestly, and then I overheard him say to another lieutenant, "The service is going to the devil.

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

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

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

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

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

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

moving to the inside of something

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

past form of “introduce” — cause to come to know personally

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

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

From this reading He read the note, looked at me earnestly, and then I overheard him say to another lieutenant, "The service is going to the devil.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

an opinion formed by judging something

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

be cognizant or aware of a fact or a specific piece of information; possess knowledge or information about

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

the superlative of “little” that can be used with mass nouns and is usually preceded by “the”; a quantifier meaning smallest in amount or extent or degree

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

beat thoroughly and conclusively in a competition or fight

From this reading Here's another of the fools of a family made a present of to the country--another cub for me to lick into shape.

a commissioned military officer

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

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

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

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

From this reading He read the note, looked at me earnestly, and then I overheard him say to another lieutenant, "The service is going to the devil.

produced by a manufacturing process

From this reading Here's another of the fools of a family made a present of to the country--another cub for me to lick into shape.

engage in

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

a warship intended for combat

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

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 I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

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

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

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

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

(comparative of “much” used with mass nouns) a quantifier meaning greater in size or amount or extent or degree

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

a form of address for a man

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

a form of address for a married woman

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

to a great degree or extent

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

belonging to the person speaking

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

in accordance with nature; relating to or concerning nature

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

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

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

a brief written record

From this reading On our arrival on board, the coxswain gave a note from the captain to the first lieutenant, who happened to be on deck.

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

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

sporadically and infrequently

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading On our arrival on board, the coxswain gave a note from the captain to the first lieutenant, who happened to be on deck.

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

belonging to the speaker and others

From this reading On our arrival on board, the coxswain gave a note from the captain to the first lieutenant, who happened to be on deck.

inflected form of “overhear” — hear, usually without the knowledge of the speakers

From this reading He read the note, looked at me earnestly, and then I overheard him say to another lieutenant, "The service is going to the devil.

(plural) any group of human beings (men or women or children) collectively

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

situated in a particular spot or position

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

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

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

give an exhibition of to an interested audience

From this reading Here's another of the fools of a family made a present of to the country--another cub for me to lick into shape.

third-person singular of “pronounce” — speak, pronounce, or utter in a certain way

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

a stipulated condition

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

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

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

interpret something that is written or printed

From this reading He read the note, looked at me earnestly, and then I overheard him say to another lieutenant, "The service is going to the devil.

show unwillingness towards

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

-ing form of “require” — require as useful, just, or proper

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

the social force that binds you to the courses of action demanded by that force

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

express in words

From this reading He read the note, looked at me earnestly, and then I overheard him say to another lieutenant, "The service is going to the devil.

cause to go somewhere

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

work done by one person or group that benefits another

From this reading He read the note, looked at me earnestly, and then I overheard him say to another lieutenant, "The service is going to the devil.

any spatial attributes (especially as defined by outline)

From this reading Here's another of the fools of a family made a present of to the country--another cub for me to lick into shape.

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

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

plural of “situation” — the general state of things; the combination of circumstances at a given time

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

a male human offspring

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

plural of “son” — a male human offspring

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

taken unawares or suddenly and feeling wonder or astonishment

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

plural of “take” — the income or profit arising from such transactions as the sale of land or other property

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

used to introduce the second part of a comparison

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

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

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors)

From this reading He read the note, looked at me earnestly, and then I overheard him say to another lieutenant, "The service is going to the devil.

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

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

inflected form of “trot” — run at a moderately swift pace

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

foot of a pig or sheep especially one used as food

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

the speaker and others, as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

precisely as stated

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.

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

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading As long as it was not popular, if we had not much education, we at least had the chance that natural abilities gave us; but now that great people send their sons for a provision into the navy, we have all the refuse of their families, as if anything was good enough to make a captain of a man-of-war, who has occasionally more responsibility on his shoulders, and is placed in situations requiring more judgment, than any other people in existence.

which person or people

From this reading I am introduced to the quarter-deck and first lieutenant, who pronounces me very clever--Trotted below to Mrs Trotter--Connubial bliss in a cock-pit--Mr Trotter takes me in as a mess-mate--Feel very much surprised that so many people know that I am the son of--my father.