Chapter XVII · Chapter 17

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

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

(usually followed by “to”) having the necessary means or skill or know-how or authority to do something

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

on the subject of; concerning

From this reading What did I know, for instance, about _striking a top-gallant-mast,_ and sending it down on deck in a gale of wind?

any specific behavior

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

a mixture of gases (especially oxygen) required for breathing; the stuff that the wind consists of

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

(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 SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

at or on or to the masthead or upper rigging of a ship

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

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

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

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

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

established by authority; given authoritative approval

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

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

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

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

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

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

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

someone new to a field or activity

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

an appliance that corrects dental irregularities

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

English explorer who with John Speke was the first European to explore Lake Tanganyika (1821-1890)

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

a commercial or industrial enterprise and the people who constitute it

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

the particular occupation for which you are trained

From this reading The business of a thorough-bred sailor is a special calling, as much of a regular trade as a carpenter’s or locksmith’s.

to be able to, or to be allowed to

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

a heavy, closely woven fabric (used for clothing or chairs or sails or tents)

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

capability to perform or produce

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

possessive form of “carpenter” — a woodworker who makes or repairs wooden objects

From this reading The business of a thorough-bred sailor is a special calling, as much of a regular trade as a carpenter’s or locksmith’s.

definite but not specified or identified

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

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

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

a tract of land with few or no trees in the middle of a wooded area

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

the process of giving careful thought to something

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

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

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

education imparted in a series of lessons or meetings

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

superlative of “dark” — devoid of or deficient in light or brightness; shadowed or black

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

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

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

any of various platforms built into a vessel

From this reading What did I know, for instance, about _striking a top-gallant-mast,_ and sending it down on deck in a gale of wind?

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

From this reading What did I know, for instance, about _striking a top-gallant-mast,_ and sending it down on deck in a gale of wind?

being or moving lower in position or less in some value

From this reading What did I know, for instance, about _striking a top-gallant-mast,_ and sending it down on deck in a gale of wind?

plural of “duty” — the social force that binds you to the courses of action demanded by that force

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

having ones attention or mind or energy engaged

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

well known or easily recognized

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

serving to make familiar

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

to a considerable degree; very much

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

-ing form of “form” — create (as an entity)

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

highly offensive; arousing aversion or disgust

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

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

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

a strong wind moving 45-90 knots; force 7 to 10 on Beaufort scale

From this reading What did I know, for instance, about _striking a top-gallant-mast,_ and sending it down on deck in a gale of wind?

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

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

the activity of transporting goods by truck

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

the hole that an anchor rope passes through

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

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

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

cause to continue in a certain state, position, or activity; e.g., “keep clean”

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

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

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

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

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

not to be dispensed with; essential

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

of or characteristic of low rank or importance

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

too numerous to be counted

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

an occurrence of something

From this reading What did I know, for instance, about _striking a top-gallant-mast,_ and sending it down on deck in a gale of wind?

plural of “intricacy” — marked by elaborately complex detail

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

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

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading What did I know, for instance, about _striking a top-gallant-mast,_ and sending it down on deck in a gale of wind?

a small worthless amount

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

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

From this reading What did I know, for instance, about _striking a top-gallant-mast,_ and sending it down on deck in a gale of wind?

evidencing the possession of inside information

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

put into a certain place or abstract location

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

gain knowledge or skills

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

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

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

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

From this reading The business of a thorough-bred sailor is a special calling, as much of a regular trade as a carpenter’s or locksmith’s.

-ing form of “loose” — grant freedom to; free from confinement

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

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

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

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 For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

United States poet (1869-1950)

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

plural of “matter” — a vaguely specified concern

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

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

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

the force of workers available

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

being nothing more than specified

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

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

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

to a great degree or extent

From this reading The business of a thorough-bred sailor is a special calling, as much of a regular trade as a carpenter’s or locksmith’s.

belonging to the person speaking

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

verbal abuse; a crude substitute for argument

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

relating to or involving ships or shipping or navigation or seamen

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

the time after sunset and before sunrise while it is dark outside

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

discovered or determined by scientific observation

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading What did I know, for instance, about _striking a top-gallant-mast,_ and sending it down on deck in a gale of wind?

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

a judge of a probate court

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

something determined in relation to something that includes it

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

(American football) a play that involves one player throwing the ball to a teammate

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

plural of “place” — a point located with respect to surface features of some region

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

for the most part

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

engaged in a profession or engaging in as a profession or means of livelihood

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

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

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

in accordance with fixed order or procedure or principle

From this reading The business of a thorough-bred sailor is a special calling, as much of a regular trade as a carpenter’s or locksmith’s.

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

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

affording physical or mental rest

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

plural of “rope” — a strong line

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

(of fluids) moving or issuing in a stream

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

any member of a ship's crew

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

a man who serves as a sailor

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

possessive form of “seaman” — a man who serves as a sailor

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

small stuff that is used for lashing two or more ropes together

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

the act of causing something to go (especially messages)

From this reading What did I know, for instance, about _striking a top-gallant-mast,_ and sending it down on deck in a gale of wind?

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

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

give an exhibition of to an interested audience

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

in the near future

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

unique or specific to a person or thing or category

From this reading The business of a thorough-bred sailor is a special calling, as much of a regular trade as a carpenter’s or locksmith’s.

muscular and heavily built

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

sensational in appearance or thrilling in effect

From this reading What did I know, for instance, about _striking a top-gallant-mast,_ and sending it down on deck in a gale of wind?

how something is done or how it happens

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

the quality of being superior

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

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

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

the people or things already mentioned, as the object

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

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

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

any movable possession (especially articles of clothing)

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

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

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

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

From this reading The business of a thorough-bred sailor is a special calling, as much of a regular trade as a carpenter’s or locksmith’s.

in spite of the fact that

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

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

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

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

From this reading What did I know, for instance, about _striking a top-gallant-mast,_ and sending it down on deck in a gale of wind?

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

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

the commercial exchange (buying and selling on domestic or international markets) of goods and services

From this reading The business of a thorough-bred sailor is a special calling, as much of a regular trade as a carpenter’s or locksmith’s.

plural of “trade” — the commercial exchange (buying and selling on domestic or international markets) of goods and services

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

subjected to a physical (or chemical) treatment or action or agent

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

moved around an axis or center

From this reading Could I have _turned in a dead-eye,_ or in the approved nautical style have _clapt a seizing on the main-stay?_ What did I know of _“passing a gammoning,” “reiving a Burton,” “strapping a shoe-block,” “clearing a foul hawse,”_ and innumerable other intricacies?

the particular occupation for which you are trained

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

used to ask for information about something

From this reading What did I know, for instance, about _striking a top-gallant-mast,_ and sending it down on deck in a gale of wind?

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

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

air moving (sometimes with considerable force) from an area of high pressure to an area of low pressure

From this reading What did I know, for instance, about _striking a top-gallant-mast,_ and sending it down on deck in a gale of wind?

in the company of; together with

From this reading A SAILOR A JACK OF ALL TRADES As I began to learn my sailor duties, and show activity in running aloft, the men, I observed, treated me with a little more consideration, though not at all relaxing in a certain air of professional superiority.

but in spite of that

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

the person or people being spoken to

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_

used when the person spoken to is also the object of the action

From this reading For the mere knowing of the names of the ropes, and familiarizing yourself with their places, so that you can lay hold of them in the darkest night; and the loosing and furling of the canvas, and reefing topsails, and hauling braces; all this, though of course forming an indispensable part of a seaman’s vocation, and the business in which he is principally engaged; yet these are things which a beginner of ordinary capacity soon masters, and which are far inferior to many other matters familiar to an _“able seaman.”_