used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
aimverbUS /eɪm/
point or cause to go (blows, weapons, or objects such as photographic equipment) towards
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
(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 For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
ambushverbUS /ˈæmbʊʃ/
wait in hiding to attack
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
Amhurst's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound
From this reading What is an Oxford toast?
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
anonymitynounUS /ˌænəˈnɪmɪti/
the state of being anonymous
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
react verbally
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
one or some or every or all without specification
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
the activity of contributing to the fulfillment of a need or furtherance of an effort or purpose
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
beingauxiliary verbUS /ˈbiːɪŋ/
the -ing form of “be”
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
(comparative of “good”) superior to another (of the same class or set or kind) in excellence or quality or desirability or suitability; more highly skilled than another
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
brought into existence
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
plural of “boy” — a youthful male person
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
butterfliesnounUS /ˈbʌtərflaɪz/
plural of “butterfly” — diurnal insect typically having a slender body with knobbed antennae and broad colorful wings
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
showing who or what does the action
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
assign a specified (usually proper) proper name to
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
cannot
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
King of France from 1560 to 1574 whose reign was dominated by his mother Catherine de Medicis (1550-1574)
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
a young person of either sex
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
cloaths
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
commentsnounUS /ˈkɑːments/
plural of “comment” — a statement that expresses a personal opinion or belief or adds information
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
consnounUS /kɑːnz/
plural of “con” — an argument opposed to a proposal
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
taking a series of rhythmical steps (and movements) in time to music
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
a female human offspring
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
causing or capable of causing death
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
someone who is a detective
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
(often used in combination) having a specified direction
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
dirtyadjectiveUS /ˈdɜːrti/
soiled or likely to soil with dirt or grime
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
used to form questions and negatives, and to give emphasis
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
a phenomenon that follows and is caused by some previous phenomenon
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
Encyclopædia
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
either extremity of something that has length
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
an adequate quantity; a quantity that is large enough to achieve a purpose
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
everything you own; all of your assets (whether real property or personal property) and liabilities
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
apart from; not including
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
a social unit living together
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
fanciesnounUS /ˈfænsiz/
plural of “fancy” — something many people believe that is false
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
more distant in especially space or time
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
quickly or rapidly (often used as a combining form)
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
Filius
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
start firing a weapon
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
Flavia
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
foundationnounUS /faʊnˈdeɪʃən/
the basis on which something is grounded
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
showing where something starts, or who sent it
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
bright and pleasant; promoting a feeling of cheer
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
a man of refinement
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
a young female
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
plural of “girl” — a young female
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
plural of “go” — a time period for working (after which you will be relieved by someone else)
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
a woman's dress, usually with a close-fitting bodice and a long flared skirt, often worn on formal occasions
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
relatively large in size or number or extent; larger than others of its kind
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/
used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
the upper part of the human body or the front part of the body in animals; contains the face and brains
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
Hearne
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
belonging to a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
used when the woman or girl doing the action is also its object
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
used when the man or boy doing the action is also its object
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
cause to continue in a certain state, position, or activity; e.g., “keep clean”
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
hollandnounUS /ˈhɑːlənd/
a constitutional monarchy in western Europe on the North Sea; half the country lies below sea level
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
hoopnounUS /huːp/
a light curved skeleton to spread out a skirt
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
how
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
insolentadjectiveUS /ˈɪnsələnt/
marked by casual disrespect
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading What is an Oxford toast?
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
cause to continue in a certain state, position, or activity; e.g., “keep clean”
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
a male sovereign; ruler of a kingdom
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
plural of “know” — the fact of being aware of information that is known to few people
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
set down according to a plan
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
gain knowledge or skills
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
marryingverbUS /ˈmeriɪŋ/
-ing form of “marry” — take in marriage
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
mean or intend to express or convey
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
thing or person that acts to produce a particular effect or achieve an end
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
mechanick
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
MertonnounUS /ˈmɜːrtən/
United States religious and writer (1915-1968)
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
The element of a person that enables awareness and thought.
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
fail to perceive or to catch with the senses or the mind
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
a surrounding or nearby region
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
not of long duration; having just (or relatively recently) come into being or been made or acquired or discovered
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
touching and supported by a surface
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
used to join alternatives or possibilities
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
orangenounUS /ˈɔːrəndʒ/
round yellow to orange fruit of any of several citrus trees
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
not allowed to continue to bat or run
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
OxfordnounUS /ˈɑːksfərd/
a city in southern England to the northwest of London; site of Oxford University
From this reading What is an Oxford toast?
parsonnounUS /ˈpɑːrsən/
a person authorized to conduct religious worship
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
a point located with respect to surface features of some region
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
participate in games or sport
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
an executive officer of a firm or corporation
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
pleasing by delicacy or grace; not imposing
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
resolvesnounUS /riˈzɑːlvz/
plural of “resolve” — the trait of being resolute
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
(usually preceded by “in”) a detail or point
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
plural of “say” — the chance to speak
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
an educational institution
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
schoolmasternounUS /ˈskuːlmæstər/
presiding officer of a school
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
sendsverbUS /sendz/
third-person singular of “send” — cause to go somewhere
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
slovennoun
a coarse obnoxious person
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
smocks
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
(quantifier) used with either mass nouns or plural count nouns to indicate an unspecified number or quantity
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
in the near future
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
be agreeable or acceptable to
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
sumsnounUS /sʌmz/
plural of “sum” — a quantity of money
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
a set of data arranged in rows and columns
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
inflected form of “teach” — impart skills or knowledge to
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
Terrae
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
used to introduce the second part of a comparison
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
the cardinal number that is the sum of one and one and one
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
thumbnounUS /θʌm/
the thick short innermost digit of the forelimb
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
toastverbUS /toʊst/
make brown and crisp by heating
From this reading What is an Oxford toast?
toastsnounUS /toʊsts/
plural of “toast” — slices of bread that have been toasted
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
toesnounUS /toʊz/
plural of “toe” — one of the digits of the foot
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
a tall perennial woody plant having a main trunk and branches forming a distinct elevated crown; includes both gymnosperms and angiosperms
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
change orientation or direction, also in the abstract sense
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
the cardinal number that is the sum of one and one or a numeral representing this number
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
underprepositionUS /ˈʌndər/
below or beneath something; less than
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
unerringadjective
not liable to error
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
being or moving higher in position or greater in some value; being above a former position or level
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
uponprepositionUS /əˈpɑːn/
a formal word for “on”
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
an architectural partition with a height and length greater than its thickness; used to divide or enclose an area or to support another structure
From this reading Terrae Filius sums her up--Merton Wall butterflies--Hearne comments--Flavia and the orange tree--Dick, the sloven--The President under her thumb--Amhurst’s table of cons.--King Charles and the other place.
used to ask for information about something
From this reading What is an Oxford toast?
used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
which person or people
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
a married woman; a man's partner in marriage
From this reading “She is born, as the King says, of mean estate, being the daughter of some insolent mechanick, who fancies himself a gentleman and resolves to keep up his family by marrying his girl to a parson or a schoolmaster; to which end, he and his wife call her pretty miss, as soon as she knows what it means, and sends her to the dancing school to learn how to hold up her head, and turn out her toes; she is taught from a child not to play with any of the dirty boys and girls in the neighbourhood; but to mind her dancing, and have a great respect for the gown.
in the company of; together with
From this reading For answer I cannot do better than turn to that Oxford _Encyclopædia_, Terrae Filius, who from the ambush of his anonymity, directed his fire upon all toasts with unerring aim and deadly effect.
not having, not using, or not accompanied by
From this reading This foundation being laid, she goes on fast enough of herself, without any farther assistance, except an hoop, a gay suit of cloaths, and two or three new holland smocks.
