Chapter IX

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

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

quickly and without warning

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

past form of “add” — make an addition (to); join or combine or unite with others; increase the quality, quantity, size or scope of

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

later than; following

From this reading Nothing more uncomfortable could be supposed after the warmth and light of a snug interior, however humble; and the minister turned his face hastily in the direction of his lodging.

anew

From this reading But the next moment he turned back again, and looked wistfully in the other direction.

(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 All the shops were closed, a policeman marched along with heavy tread, and the wet pavement glimmered round his solitary figure.

following the length of something from one end toward the other

From this reading All the shops were closed, a policeman marched along with heavy tread, and the wet pavement glimmered round his solitary figure.

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

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

one more of the same kind, or a different one

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

belonging to or characteristic of the nobility or aristocracy

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

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

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

in or to or toward a former location

From this reading But the next moment he turned back again, and looked wistfully in the other direction.

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

From this reading Nothing more uncomfortable could be supposed after the warmth and light of a snug interior, however humble; and the minister turned his face hastily in the direction of his lodging.

the past participle of “be”

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

being of the achromatic color of maximum darkness; having little or no hue owing to absorption of almost all incident light

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

of the color intermediate between green and violet; having a color similar to that of a clear unclouded sky

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

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

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

inflected form of “come” — move toward, travel toward something or somebody or approach something or somebody

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

definite but not specified or identified

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

a person who is being chased

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

not open or affording passage or access

From this reading All the shops were closed, a policeman marched along with heavy tread, and the wet pavement glimmered round his solitary figure.

having a low or inadequate temperature or feeling a sensation of coldness or having been made cold by e.g. ice or refrigeration

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

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

From this reading Nothing more uncomfortable could be supposed after the warmth and light of a snug interior, however humble; and the minister turned his face hastily in the direction of his lodging.

placed crosswise

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

absence of light or illumination

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

uncannily or threateningly dark or obscure

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

absence of light or illumination

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

inflected form of “dim” — switch (a car's headlights) from a higher to a lower beam

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

a line leading to a place or point

From this reading Nothing more uncomfortable could be supposed after the warmth and light of a snug interior, however humble; and the minister turned his face hastily in the direction of his lodging.

in a cheerless manner

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

a swinging or sliding barrier that will close the entrance to a room or building or vehicle

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

past form of “emerge” — come out into view, as from concealment

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

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

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

every person

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

the front of the human head from the forehead to the chin and ear to ear

From this reading Nothing more uncomfortable could be supposed after the warmth and light of a snug interior, however humble; and the minister turned his face hastily in the direction of his lodging.

having dropped by the force of gravity

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

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

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

being the sex (of plant or animal) that produces fertilizable gametes (ova) from which offspring develop

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

a diagram or picture illustrating textual material

From this reading All the shops were closed, a policeman marched along with heavy tread, and the wet pavement glimmered round his solitary figure.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

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

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

a long fixed look

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

elegance by virtue of fineness of manner and expression

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

Christian martyr; patron saint of England; hero of the legend of Saint George and the Dragon in which he slew a dragon and saved a princess (?-303)

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

a flash of light (especially reflected light)

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

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

From this reading All the shops were closed, a policeman marched along with heavy tread, and the wet pavement glimmered round his solitary figure.

an outlying farm

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

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

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

in a hurried or hasty manner

From this reading Nothing more uncomfortable could be supposed after the warmth and light of a snug interior, however humble; and the minister turned his face hastily in the direction of his lodging.

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

From this reading But the next moment he turned back again, and looked wistfully in the other direction.

of comparatively great physical weight or density

From this reading All the shops were closed, a policeman marched along with heavy tread, and the wet pavement glimmered round his solitary figure.

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

From this reading All the shops were closed, a policeman marched along with heavy tread, and the wet pavement glimmered round his solitary figure.

favorable to life and growth

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

used to add a contrasting statement

From this reading Nothing more uncomfortable could be supposed after the warmth and light of a snug interior, however humble; and the minister turned his face hastily in the direction of his lodging.

low or inferior in station or quality

From this reading Nothing more uncomfortable could be supposed after the warmth and light of a snug interior, however humble; and the minister turned his face hastily in the direction of his lodging.

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

From this reading Nothing more uncomfortable could be supposed after the warmth and light of a snug interior, however humble; and the minister turned his face hastily in the direction of his lodging.

situated within or suitable for inside a building

From this reading Nothing more uncomfortable could be supposed after the warmth and light of a snug interior, however humble; and the minister turned his face hastily in the direction of his lodging.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

the first month of the year; begins 10 days after the winter solstice

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

light from a lamp

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

plural of “lamp” — an artificial source of visible illumination

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

a narrow way or road

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

deliver a lecture or talk

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

the linear extent in space from one end to the other; the longest dimension of something that is fixed in place

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

of comparatively little physical weight or density

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

structures collectively in which people are housed

From this reading Nothing more uncomfortable could be supposed after the warmth and light of a snug interior, however humble; and the minister turned his face hastily in the direction of his lodging.

perceive with attention; direct one's gaze towards

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

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

From this reading But the next moment he turned back again, and looked wistfully in the other direction.

the act of directing the eyes toward something and perceiving it visually

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

past form of “march” — march in a procession

From this reading All the shops were closed, a policeman marched along with heavy tread, and the wet pavement glimmered round his solitary figure.

a person authorized to conduct religious worship

From this reading Nothing more uncomfortable could be supposed after the warmth and light of a snug interior, however humble; and the minister turned his face hastily in the direction of his lodging.

a particular point in time

From this reading But the next moment he turned back again, and looked wistfully in the other direction.

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

From this reading Nothing more uncomfortable could be supposed after the warmth and light of a snug interior, however humble; and the minister turned his face hastily in the direction of his lodging.

immediately following in time or order

From this reading But the next moment he turned back again, and looked wistfully in the other direction.

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

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

not one thing; not anything

From this reading Nothing more uncomfortable could be supposed after the warmth and light of a snug interior, however humble; and the minister turned his face hastily in the direction of his lodging.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading But the next moment he turned back again, and looked wistfully in the other direction.

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

above your head; in the sky

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

the paved surface of a thoroughfare

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

a way of regarding situations or topics etc.

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

a member of a police force

From this reading All the shops were closed, a policeman marched along with heavy tread, and the wet pavement glimmered round his solitary figure.

possession of controlling influence

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

plural of “pretension” — a false or unsupportable quality

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

water falling in drops from vapor condensed in the atmosphere

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

conforming to the established language usage of educated native speakers

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

new

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

a calm, lengthy, intent consideration

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

a charge of ammunition for a single shot

From this reading All the shops were closed, a policeman marched along with heavy tread, and the wet pavement glimmered round his solitary figure.

(of persons) having the torso erect and legs bent with the body supported on the buttocks

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

the quality of being secluded from the presence or view of others

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

(of something seen or heard) clearly defined

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

plural of “shop” — a mercantile establishment for the retail sale of goods or services

From this reading All the shops were closed, a policeman marched along with heavy tread, and the wet pavement glimmered round his solitary figure.

a plumbing fixture that sprays water over you

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

plural of “sky” — the atmosphere and outer space as viewed from the earth

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

without speed (“slow” is sometimes used informally for “slowly”)

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

offering safety; well protected or concealed

From this reading Nothing more uncomfortable could be supposed after the warmth and light of a snug interior, however humble; and the minister turned his face hastily in the direction of his lodging.

characterized by or preferring solitude

From this reading All the shops were closed, a policeman marched along with heavy tread, and the wet pavement glimmered round his solitary figure.

morally degraded

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

plural of “stone” — a lump or mass of hard consolidated mineral matter

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

an unbroken series of events

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

a thoroughfare (usually including sidewalks) that is lined with buildings

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

plural of “street” — a thoroughfare (usually including sidewalks) that is lined with buildings

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

happening without warning or in a short space of time

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

required or under orders

From this reading Nothing more uncomfortable could be supposed after the warmth and light of a snug interior, however humble; and the minister turned his face hastily in the direction of his lodging.

a set of data arranged in rows and columns

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

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

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

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

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

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

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

put down or press the foot, place the foot

From this reading All the shops were closed, a policeman marched along with heavy tread, and the wet pavement glimmered round his solitary figure.

moved around an axis or center

From this reading Nothing more uncomfortable could be supposed after the warmth and light of a snug interior, however humble; and the minister turned his face hastily in the direction of his lodging.

conducive to or feeling mental discomfort

From this reading Nothing more uncomfortable could be supposed after the warmth and light of a snug interior, however humble; and the minister turned his face hastily in the direction of his lodging.

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

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

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

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

precisely as stated

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

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

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

lacking refinement or cultivation or taste

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

the sensation caused by heat energy

From this reading Nothing more uncomfortable could be supposed after the warmth and light of a snug interior, however humble; and the minister turned his face hastily in the direction of his lodging.

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

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

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

From this reading All the shops were closed, a policeman marched along with heavy tread, and the wet pavement glimmered round his solitary figure.

covered or soaked with a liquid such as water

From this reading All the shops were closed, a policeman marched along with heavy tread, and the wet pavement glimmered round his solitary figure.

in or at the place that

From this reading It was not to gaze along the dark length of street to where the garden-walls of Grange Lane, undiscernible in the darkness, added a far-withdrawing perspective of gentility and aristocratic seclusion to the vulgar pretensions of George Street; it was to look at a female figure which came slowly up, dimming out the reflection on the wet stones as it crossed one streak of lamplight after another.

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

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

during the time that

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

the coldest season of the year; in the northern hemisphere it extends from the winter solstice to the vernal equinox

From this reading It was a January night on which Vincent emerged abruptly from Tozer's door, the evening of that lecture--a winter night, not very cold, but very dark, the skies looking not blue, but black overhead, and the light of the lamps gleaming dismally on the pavement, which had received a certain squalid power of reflection from the recent rain; for a sharp, sudden shower had fallen while Vincent had been seated at the hospitable table of the butterman, which had chased everybody from the darkling streets.

in a wistful manner

From this reading But the next moment he turned back again, and looked wistfully in the other direction.

in the company of; together with

From this reading All the shops were closed, a policeman marched along with heavy tread, and the wet pavement glimmered round his solitary figure.